What are Advanced Shipping Notices (ASNs)?

Team
2022-04-04

Introduction

If you're running a business that involves warehousing and shipping products, then you've probably heard of ASNs before. But what are they, exactly? ASNs (or "advanced shipping notices") are documents that provide detailed information about a shipment, including the items being shipped, the quantities, and the addresses of both the sender and the recipient. ASNs are important because they help ensure that shipments arrive at their destination accurately and on time. In this blog post, we'll discuss what ASNs are and why they're important in warehousing operations.

anonymous man preparing package for shipment
Photo by Karolina Grabowska on Pexels.com

What Does ASN Stand For?

ASN stands for "advanced shipping notice." ASNs were first developed in the early 2000s as a way to improve the accuracy of shipments and to reduce the number of delivery failures. ASNs are now considered an industry standard, and nearly all major shippers use them to some extent.

a man in a suit looking at documents on a coffee table
Photo by RODNAE Productions on Pexels.com

What Does an ASN Include?

An ASN typically includes the following information:

- The name of the shipper

- The name of the recipient

- A description of each item in the shipment, including the quantity and weight

- The shipping address for each item

- The delivery date for each item

city man person people
Photo by Artem Podrez on Pexels.com

How Are ASNs Used?

ASNs are used primarily by warehouses and distribution centers to ensure that products are shipped to the correct destination and that they arrive on time. ASNs help warehouses plan their shipments and allocate resources accordingly. ASNs are also used by retailers and other customers to track their orders and see where they are in the shipping process.

crop woman taking notes in diary while sitting in park
Photo by Karolina Grabowska on Pexels.com

Are ASNs Mandatory?

ASNs are not mandatory, but they are strongly recommended. Most major shippers require ASNs for all shipments, and many smaller shippers also use them. Your warehouse or distributor may require this documentation as well

blue and red freight truck on road
Photo by Markus Spiske on Pexels.com

Why Are ASNs Important?

ASNs are important because they help ensure that shipments arrive at their destination accurately and on time. ASNs help warehouses plan their shipments and allocate resources accordingly. ASNs are also used by retailers and other customers to track their orders and see where they are in the shipping process.

woman fixing clothes on the rack
Photo by Ksenia Chernaya on Pexels.com

How Can I Get an ASN?

If you're a business that ships products, you can get ASNs from your shipper. Most major shippers offer ASN services, and many smaller shippers also offer ASN capabilities. If you're not sure whether your shipper offers ASN services, contact them and ask.

a man and a woman working for a delivery company
Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko on Pexels.com

Conclusion

ASNs are important documents that help ensure the accuracy and timeliness of shipments. If you're a business that ships products, you should make sure that your ASNs are as complete and accurate as possible. Thanks for reading!

More Recent Stories

What Is A Liftgate?
What Is A Liftgate?
December 29, 2022
What Is Drayage?
What Is Drayage?
December 28, 2022