Table of contents
Overview
The EDI ANSI X12 856, commonly referred to as the Advance Ship Notice (ASN), is a critical electronic transaction used in supply chain operations to notify a buyer about an upcoming shipment. This document is transmitted by the supplier prior to the physical delivery of goods and includes comprehensive details such as shipment contents, packaging hierarchy, carrier information, and expected delivery dates.
By providing early and structured visibility into what is being shipped, how it’s organized, and when it will arrive, the EDI ANSI X12 856 enables trading partners to streamline receiving processes, automate inventory updates, and support accurate three-way matching between purchase orders, ASNs, and invoices. It plays a vital role in improving operational efficiency, reducing errors, and enhancing supply chain transparency.
Key Use Cases
- Notifying trading partners of an upcoming shipment.
- Providing detailed shipment contents and packaging structure.
- Enabling warehouse teams to prepare for incoming goods.
- Supporting automated receiving and inventory updates.
- Facilitating three-way match between PO, ASN, and invoice.
Data Elements Included
An EDI ANSI X12 856 Advance Ship Notice typically includes:
- Shipment Identification: Unique shipment ID and shipping date.
- Purchase Order Reference: The PO number(s) related to the shipment.
- Carrier and Transportation Details: Carrier name, SCAC code, tracking number, and estimated delivery date.
- Packaging Hierarchy: Pallet, carton, and item-level structure.
- Item Details: Product identifiers (SKU, GTIN), quantities, and descriptions.
- Shipment Location Info: Ship-from and ship-to addresses.
Benefits of EDI ANSI X12 856
- Improved receiving accuracy and efficiency.
- Reduced manual data entry and receiving errors.
- Enhanced supply chain visibility and planning.
- Faster reconciliation with purchase orders and invoices.
- Supports compliance with trading partner logistics requirements.
How TraceLink Supports EDI ANSI X12 856
TraceLink’s Opus Platform and digital network provide a robust foundation for ASN processing:
- Seamless integration with supplier and customer systems (ERP, WMS, TMS).
- Real-time data validation to catch errors before they disrupt operations.
- Flexible packaging hierarchy support to match complex shipment structures.
- Global compliance support for logistics and documentation standards.
- End-to-end visibility into ASN lifecycle and shipment status.
Explore More EDI ANSI X12 Capabilities
- EDI ANSI X12 850 – Purchase Orders: Automate procurement and reduce order errors by transmitting POs electronically.
- EDI ANSI X12 810 – Invoices: Accelerate billing cycles and reduce disputes through electronic invoicing.
- EDI ANSI X12 820 – Remittance: Enable faster, accurate payments with electronic remittance details.
Need Help Implementing EDI ANSI X12 856?
Contact us to learn how to enhance your shipping and receiving operations with TraceLink’s EDI integration and visibility tools.
