EDI 310: Freight Receipt and Invoice (Ocean)
EDI 310 Definition
The EDI 310 transaction set is used within the ocean shipping and logistics industry to provide a detailed invoice for services rendered in the transportation of goods by sea. This document covers freight charges, including ocean transportation, terminal handling, and related accessorial charges. It serves as a comprehensive billing statement from carriers to shippers or consignees for ocean freight services, facilitating accurate and efficient processing of freight invoices.
What is EDI 310 Used for?
Ocean carriers use the EDI 310 to electronically send freight invoices to shippers, consignees, or third-party logistics providers for the transportation of goods by sea. The recipient of the EDI 310 can automate the processing of these invoices into their accounts payable system, facilitating quick and accurate payment for services rendered. This electronic exchange of invoice information helps to streamline billing operations, reduce paperwork, and improve cash flow management for carriers.
Key Elements of EDI 310
An EDI 310 document typically includes key elements to effectively convey ocean freight receipt and invoice information:
- Transaction Set Header and Trailer: Marks the beginning and end of the EDI 310 document, encapsulating the freight receipt and invoice details.
- Invoice Header: Provides general information about the invoice, including invoice number, date, and terms of sale.
- Bill of Lading Information: Details related to the bill of lading, such as the bill of lading number, booking number, and vessel details.
- Shipment Details: Information on the shipment, including origin, destination, shipment dates, and descriptions of the goods.
- Charges and Payments: Detailed breakdown of applicable charges for the shipment, including freight charges, terminal handling charges, and any additional fees.
- Payment Terms: Information on payment terms and conditions, including due dates and payment methods.
Benefits of EDI 310
Utilizing the EDI 310 document offers several advantages:
- Efficiency: Streamlines the invoicing process by reducing manual data entry and paper-based billing, saving time and administrative costs.
- Accuracy: Enhances the accuracy of freight billing by providing detailed and standardized information on charges and services.
- Faster Payment Processing: Enables quicker invoice processing and payment, improving cash flow for carriers.
- Improved Dispute Resolution: Facilitates faster resolution of billing disputes by providing clear, detailed information on freight charges and services.
EDI 310 Document Example
Here’s a simplified example of what an EDI 310 might look like in raw data format:
ST*310*0001
B3**123456789*CarrierCode*20241130*12345.67*PPD*123456*BL123456
N1*SH*Shipper Name*1*123 Shipper Street*City*ST*12345
N1*CN*Consignee Name*2*456 Consignee Avenue*City*ST*67890
R4*E*UN*Port of Loading*POL123
R4*R*UN*Port of Discharge*POD456
LX*1
L1*1*1000*KG*500.00*Ocean Freight Charge
L1*2**0*25.00*Terminal Handling Charge
SE*9*0001
Guide to EDI 310 Terms and Elements:
- ST (Transaction Set Header): Initiates the EDI 310 document, identified by a unique control number.
- B3 (Beginning Segment for Carrier's Invoice): Provides basic invoice information, including the pro number, carrier SCAC code, invoice date, and total charges.
- N1 (Name): Identifies the shipper (SH) and consignee (CN), including address information.
- R4 (Port or Terminal): Specifies details about the ports of loading and discharge, including location identifiers.
- LX (Assigned Number): A sequence number for a given transaction set within the document.
- L1 (Rate and Charges): Details the charges for the shipment, including freight charges and any accessorial charges.
- SE (Transaction Set Trailer): Concludes the EDI 310 document, ensuring completeness and accuracy.
This example is designed to give a basic understanding of how an EDI 310 document might look, including the types of information it conveys. Remember, the actual implementation might vary based on specific business needs and partnerships.
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Ready to improve your freight management and invoicing accuracy with EDI 310? Contact Comparatio today to discover how our EDI solutions can streamline your freight receipt and invoice processing, enhance operational efficiency, and contribute to a stronger bottom line.
