EDI 940 - Warehouse Shipping Order

EDI 940 Warehouse Shipping Order is a transaction set in Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) that is used for providing shipping instructions to carriers.

This transaction set streamlines the shipping process by providing carriers with all of the necessary information they need to fulfill the shipping order. It eliminates the need for paper-based shipping instructions and helps to reduce errors and delays in the shipping process.

Get Started

View the full list of EDI X12 documents and transactions

What is EDI 940?

The EDI 940 is an electronic document used to electronically transmit shipping instructions from the shipper to the carrier. This electronic document complies with the ANSI X12 EDI specification.

The EDI 940 transaction set typically includes information such as the shipping order number, ship-to and ship-from locations, requested shipping dates, carrier information, item descriptions and quantities, and other relevant information necessary for the carrier to ship the goods.

Benefits of the EDI 940

There are several benefits of using EDI 940 for providing shipping instructions to carriers, including:

Improved accuracy and reliability of data transmission

Increased automation and reduction of manual intervention

Better visibility and communication between trading partners

Improved supply chain management and increased operational efficiency

Get Started

Segments of an EDI 940

Warehouse Shipping Order, contains a set of standard data elements that are used to communicate information related to a shipment from a warehouse or distribution center to a transportation carrier.

Here are some of the key data elements included in the EDI 940:

Shipment Identification
Order Information (such as PO number, order date, and requested ship date)
Product Information (such as the product code, description, quantity, and unit of measure)
Shipping Information (as the carrier code, mode of transportation, and shipping instructions)
Bill of Lading Information
Shipment Status Information
Financial Information (such as total shipment cost, billing and payment terms, and any other charges or credits)

How is an EDI 940 Used?

EDI 940 is used to electronically transmit shipping instructions from the shipper to the carrier. The process typically involves the following steps:

The shipper creates a shipping order in their ERP, which generates the EDI 940 transaction set.
The EDI 940 transaction set is then sent to the carrier via a secure EDI connection. This can be done through a VAN (Value-Added Network) or directly through a web-based portal.
The carrier receives the EDI 940 transaction set and processes the shipping order accordingly. This may involve scheduling a pickup, generating shipping labels, and arranging for transportation.
The carrier sends an EDI 945 transaction set (Warehouse Shipping Advice) back to the shipper, which confirms that the shipment has been received and provides details such as the shipment date, carrier information, and tracking number.

Common Issues Regarding the EDI 940

Here are some common issues that may arise when using EDI 940:

Data accuracy: One of the most common issues with EDI 940 is inaccurate or incomplete data. This can cause delays and errors in the shipping and delivery process.
Missing or invalid data elements: Another common issue is missing or invalid data elements, such as incorrect addresses, product codes, or shipment quantities. This can lead to shipment rejections and delays.
Non-compliance with EDI Standards: EDI 940 must comply with industry-standard formats and protocols. Failure to comply can result in errors, rejected transactions, and fines.
Integration with legacy systems: Integration of EDI 940 with legacy systems can be challenging, as older systems may not be compatible with EDI standards and may require additional customizations.
Communication failures: EDI 940 transactions rely on electronic communication between trading partners. Communication failures, such as network or system downtime, can lead to delays and errors in the shipment process.

To prevent these issues, it’s important to have a robust and reliable EDI system in place, with proper data validation and error-checking mechanisms.

EDI 940 Specifications

ANSI ASC X12

The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) chartered the Accredited Standards Committee (ASC) X12 to develop uniform standards for inter-industry electronic exchange of business transactions, namely electronic data interchange. ASC X12 also contributes to UN/EDIFACT messages that are used widely outside of the United States.

Contact us to get Started Today!

Experience the effortless power of Commport’s Integrated EDI solution today! Say goodbye to complicated and costly software installations, and forget about the need to be an EDI expert or create your own mappings. Our seamless solution adapts effortlessly to your business’s growth, making adding new customers a breeze.

With fast and reliable translation, you can rest assured that your EDI processes are in safe hands, allowing you to focus on what truly matters – your business.

Take the next step towards efficiency and success with Commport.

Go Back to Full EDI X12 List

Looking for more? We got you!

We got the goods to help you utilize your EDI services effectively. We encourage you to explore our available resources below

Full List of EDI ANSI X12 Documents and Transactions

Read the full list of EDI x12 Documents and Transactions. PDF version available for download!

The Complete EDI Guide

Dive into this complete guide to all things EDI. From the history to EDI to the costs of doing EDI, this guide covers it all! Dive in

Getting Started with EDI

EDI can make life so much easier for businesses that need to pile through hundreds of pages of reports, invoices and data. Sounds great—but what does your business need to get started with EDI? Find out where to start!