1. A method for an automated notification system, comprising the steps of: monitoring travel data in connection with a mobile thing (MT) that is destined to pickup or deliver an item or service at a stop location; causing initiation of a notification communication session with a personal communications device (PCD) based upon the travel data; and during the notification communication session, enabling a party associated with the PCD to indicate a desire to change one or more tasks associated with the pickup or delivery.