eCommerce is a brand-new way of online shopping that has overturned traditional business. The one thing which has helped eCommerce become such a popular option is its seamless shipping facilities. It is the benchmark to differentiate successful online retailers. As businesses strive to meet customer demands for prompt deliveries and efficient supply chains, a specialised new logistics standard helps achieve it – Advanced Shipping Notices (ASNs). In this comprehensive guide, let us explore the working of ASNs and why it helps businesses to create a great eCommerce experience for buyers.
Logistics services have evolved extensively as providers and carriers have automated most processes with data-driven technology processes. Much of the paper trail needed to complete the logistics stages in traditional logistics is now by digitised tokens or receipts. One such important electronic trail to identify the movement of goods on a logistics cycle is Advanced Shipping Notices (ASNs). It is a pivotal component of modern supply chain practices.
An ASN is an electronic notification from a supplier to the next recipient in the logistics line-up, informing them about an upcoming shipment they are dispatching. Hence, the recipient is notified much before the physical delivery of the shipment. Thus, recipients have the time to prepare for the delivery of the consignment and plan for its storage. Therefore, the ASN bridges the transit of goods between the supplier’s warehouse and the recipient’s loading dock. It also gives time to prepare for deliveries, thus streamlining the process and ensuring a smoother flow of goods.
An ASN is an important notification which carries detailed information about an order that is to be dispatched. All the supply chain details in an ASN are as follows:
Thus, ASNs are crucial enablers of the logistics industry as they provide recipients with the information needed to prepare for delivery.
In addition to ASN (Advance Ship Notice), there’s another important term in logistics called EDI 856, which stands for Electronic Data Interchange 856. EDI simply means that it’s a document in an electronic format. So, an ASN is actually an EDI document with code 856 used for keeping records.
When an ASN is sent to the recipient through the Electronic Data Interchange, it carries the code ‘EDI 856’ to identify its format.
To put it simply, the EDI 856 document, also known as the Advance Ship Notice (ASN), provides specific information about the contents of a shipment. This way, the recipient knows how to handle the shipment when it arrives at their location. The details in the EDI 856 will vary depending on the order, but it will contain the following important information about the shipment:
Ever since the logistics industry adopted the EDI format and issued ASNs, there has been a transformative impact on the efficiency and effectiveness of logistics and shipping businesses. Here are some of the ways by which eCommerce businesses can benefit from ASNs –
ASNs can be created or raised by an eCommerce business by following these steps:
While eCommerce has turned around businesses from brick-and-mortar transactional phase to online buying and digital payment, one of its key processes, shipping and logistics services too, has undergone technology-driven changes. Advanced Shipping Notices have revolutionised the logistics industry, providing advanced notification of shipments and enabling businesses to plan, prepare, and streamline their operations. From improved visibility to proactive issue resolution, ASNs and EDI have changed shipping experiences forever!
ASNs are generated electronically by suppliers using EDI software or other electronic systems. Once prepared, the ASN is sent electronically to the recipient or customer.
By default, not all shipments may come with an ASN. You can always request one from your supplier.
ASN changes can be made if there are concerns by communicating directly with the supplier.
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