This guide provides an overview of the most commonly used terms when shipping with nShift TMS. It outlines the elements of a shipment, the additional information carriers may require and tips to make your shipping process smoother.
Content in the guide:
-
What is a Shipment?
- Essential Shipment Components
- Additional Required Information
- Additional Shipping Services -
Shipping Documentation
- Booking a Shipment with nShift TMS
- Streamline Your Shipping Process
- Selecting Additional Services
- Pro Tips
What is a Shipment?
A shipment is more than just sending a package from one place to another. It involves several key components that ensure your delivery reaches its destination smoothly.
Essential Shipment Components
Every valid shipment requires the following critical information:
- Carrier and Transport Service: Choose the specific carrier and service you'll use to send your package.
- Shipper (Consignor): The person or company responsible for sending the shipment.
- Recipient (Consignee): The person or company receiving the package.
- Transport Agreement: The shipper must have a valid transport agreement with the carrier, even if someone else will pay for the shipping.
-
Package Details: Provide information about your package(s), including:
- Number of packages
- Package type
- Goods description
- Weight
- Dimensions (length, width, height)
- Shipment marks
- Number of pallets - Payment Instructions: If someone other than the shipper is paying, include their transport agreement.
Additional Required Information
Most carriers will also need:
- Contact information for both shipper and recipient
- Phone numbers
- Email addresses
- Shipper's reference or order number
Additional Shipping Services
Carriers offer various supplementary services to enhance your shipping experience:
- Improved package tracking
- Insurance options
- Temperature-controlled shipping
- Special handling services
Note: Available services vary by carrier and transport service. Contact our customer service or your sales representative for specific details.
Shipping Documentation
Typical shipping documents include:
- Shipping Label: Attached to packages
- Waybill: Comprehensive shipment overview
- Receipt/Picking List: Verifies package pickup
- Dangerous Goods Declaration: Required for hazardous materials
- Invoices:
- Proforma invoice: For non-commercial items (demos, gifts, samples)
- Commercial/Customs invoice: For products with commercial value
Booking a Shipment with nShift TMS
Streamline Your Shipping Process
To make repeated shipments easier, consider creating templates in nShift TMS and WebTA. Templates allow you to:
- Preset common shipping information
- Reduce repetitive data entry
- Quickly complete shipments with minimal input
Selecting Additional Services
When booking, review the additional services offered by your chosen transport service. Service options can vary significantly:
- B2C services like DHL Service Point might offer:
- Receiver notifications
- Cash on delivery
- Climate compensation - Global courier services like DHL Express might focus on:
- Insurance options
- International shipping capabilities
Pro Tips
- Always double-check contact and package information
- Use templates to save time on recurring shipments
- Review available services for each carrier
- Prepare necessary documentation in advance
By leveraging nShift TMS, businesses can simplify complex shipping workflows, reduce manual data entry, and ensure accuracy throughout the shipping process.