An advanced shipping notice (ASN) is an electronic document that lists the details of a forthcoming shipment of goods. Typically, the ASN includes much of the information that was included on the original purchase order. It also includes carton identifications, content descriptions and transportation details.

Exchanging electronic shipping notices with your customers enables better planning for their receiving and warehousing operations. Additionally, ASNs can reduce shipping errors by providing better visibility and validation throughout the transportation process.

For larger suppliers, GXS offers services for the automated exchange of shipping notices with customers. If required, GXS can perform data translation and back-office integration using Application Integrators. For smaller suppliers, GXS offers SMB Accelerators such as web-based forms and desktop software. These products offer a low-cost means for smaller suppliers to create and send electronic ASNs. GXS has customized kits preconfigured to meet the unique business needs of many large retailers and manufacturers.

Benefits of Advanced Ship Notices

• An increasing number of retailers, distributors and manufacturers are mandating that all trading partners send electronic notices prior to the shipment of goods. Advanced shipping notices enable your buyers to schedule sales, manufacturing, logistics and warehousing activities based upon planned product availability.
• Advanced shipping notices can also improve relationships with trading partners and the quality of the customer experience.
• GXS ASN products increase productivity by automating back-office functions.
• Automated creation of ASNs based on electronic purchase orders eliminates the need for staff to manually re-key data.
• Auto-population of fields and scan verification during the packing process can reduce shipping errors.
• Fewer errors translate into fewer claims, fewer returns and fewer charge-backs. Customer satisfaction will improve. Reduced errors lead to faster invoice generation and payment.
• Sending ASNs can reduce the volume inbound calls from buyers checking the status of shipments and orders.