Advanced Shipment Notice (ASN)
An Advanced Shipment Notice (ASN) is a crucial document in supply chain management. It contains detailed information about a shipment, which includes product descriptions, lot numbers, packaging information, and expected delivery times.
The document is often sent out via Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) - a standardized means of sharing information digitally.
Typically, an ASN is sent as soon as the order is ready to be shipped out to notify the recipient of an upcoming delivery. Upon shipment arrival, the recipient can cross-check it with the ASN to check for any discrepancies.
ASN plays a crucial role in fostering supply chain visibility. Having an ASN will help customers track the status of their orders, keeping them informed so they can plan how to receive the order in advance.
Having this real-time information helps businesses gain a clearer understanding of their inventory status. This empowers them to adjust inventory levels strategically and make well-informed decisions regarding restocking, forecasting, and inventory allocation, enhancing supply chain efficiency.
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