Shipwell’s EDI integration simplifies communication between shippers and carriers by enabling seamless, real-time data exchange for order and shipment status updates. Through the EDI 214 (Status Update) transaction, Shipwell receives in-transit check calls from carriers, providing customers with timely, accurate location data. This ensures carriers meet on-time pickups and deliveries while also proactively notifying customers of any potential ETA delays.
Key Benefits of EDI Integration:
Real-Time Updates: Stay informed about shipment status, location, and estimated arrival times.
Reduced Manual Effort: Automates the process of tracking updates, allowing your team to focus on other critical tasks.
Timely Notifications: Receive updates on potential delays or issues, enabling proactive management of your shipments.
Tracking Method Overview
Tracking Source: EDI 214 (Status Update)
EDI 214 status updates provide real-time tracking by notifying shippers when key shipment statuses change. These updates offer visibility into important milestones such as pickup, transit, and delivery, allowing for better management and timely responses to potential delays.
Tracking Feature | How It Works | Ideal For |
Carrier Push Events | Carriers send updates based on specific status changes. | Keeping you updated throughout the shipping process. |
Update Frequency | Varies by carrier; updates are sent as events occur. | Customizable based on your carrier’s update schedule. |
Update Speed | Updates are visible within 1-2 minutes in the Shipwell UI. | Near real-time visibility. |
Shipment Milestones and Tracking Updates
EDI 214 status updates help you track key milestones throughout the shipment journey, providing real-time visibility on the progress of your shipments.
Shipment Milestone | Description |
Appointment | Planned pickup and delivery times. |
Arrival to Pickup | Shipment has arrived at the pickup location. |
Departure from Pickup | Shipment has left the pickup location. |
In Transit | Shipment is on its way to the destination. |
Arrival to Delivery | Shipment has arrived at the delivery location. |
Completion of Delivery | Shipment has been delivered and completed. |
Carrier ETA Management
Carrier ETA: If your carrier doesn’t provide an ETA, Shipwell will calculate one using various data points such as traffic, weather, and historical trends to give you an accurate estimate.
Carrier EDI Connection Setup
Setting up an EDI connection with a new or existing carrier is a key step to streamlining your shipment tracking. The timeline and process for establishing the connection depend on whether the carrier is new or already integrated with Shipwell. Below are the details regarding the process, timeline, and dependencies for both new and existing carrier connections.
New Carrier Connection
Estimated Timeline | Up to 1 month (4 weeks) to establish a new carrier EDI connection. |
Process Overview | Carrier Capability Assessment: Confirm EDI compatibility with the carrier. |
| Integration Development: Our team aligns data formats (e.g., XML, ANSI X12) and protocols. |
| Testing: We conduct rigorous tests with the carrier to ensure data flows accurately. |
Key Dependencies for a Successful Integration:
Carrier Engagement: Timely collaboration with the carrier is essential to avoid delays.
Technical Complexity: Non-standard formats may require customization, impacting the timeline.
Existing Carrier Connection
Estimated Timeline | 2-4 weeks for connecting with an existing carrier. |
Process Overview | Template Setup: Use pre-built templates for a faster connection setup. |
| Minor Adjustments: Implement minor updates for client-specific needs. |
| Testing: Conduct quick validation to ensure operational requirements are met. |
Key Dependencies for a Successful Integration:
Testing Collaboration: Some carriers may still require testing to confirm workflow compatibility.
Change Requests: Adding new transaction sets or adjustments may extend the timeline.
Additional Considerations and Best Practices
Consideration | Details |
Carrier Engagement | Timely carrier responsiveness is crucial to meeting timelines. Prompt communication and active participation in testing are necessary to avoid delays. |
Resource Allocation | For companies managing multiple connections, ensure sufficient internal resources are allocated to efficiently handle the onboarding process. |
System Compatibility | Confirm that your TMS supports the carrier’s preferred communication protocols (e.g., AS2, FTP) to prevent technical delays during integration. |
Best Practice Tip: Carriers must send 214 status updates in the correct order of shipment execution to ensure accurate tracking information.
Next Steps for EDI Integration
To get started with EDI setup for your carriers, please contact your Customer Success Manager at Shipwell. They will guide you through the process, assist with required forms, and ensure smooth integration.
We're committed to helping you make the most out of your EDI integration and streamlining your shipping operations.