API Standards
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Less-Than-Truckload API Standards
eBOL
Version 2.1
The Electronic Bill of Lading (eBOL) API Version 2.1 is a unified framework developed by the DSDC's Digital LTL Council to digitize and standardize the creation, transmission, and management of Bills of Lading within the Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) industry. This standard aims to replace traditional paper-based processes, enhancing efficiency, accuracy, and communication across the supply chain.
Who It's for
Shippers, LTL Carriers, Third-Party Logistics Providers (3PLs), Technology Providers
Version 2.1 addresses critical issues identified by industry users, enhancing the standard's robustness and applicability
Features
The eBOL API Standard Version 2.1 enables stakeholders to:
- Create Electronic Bills of Lading: Digitally generate standardized eBOLs, ensuring consistency and reducing manual errors.
- Update and Delete eBOL Data: Utilize new HTTP methods to modify or remove eBOL information using the relevant PRO number as the key identifier.
- Enhance Data Accuracy: Incorporate nine-digit postal codes and a new “SCAC” attribute for returning a four-digit Standard Carrier Alpha Code™ (SCAC®), improving precision in shipment details.
- Facilitate Seamless Integration: Align with existing systems and processes, ensuring compatibility and ease of adoption.
Pickup Request and Visibility
Coming Soon
The Pickup Request and Visibility API is a standardized communication tool designed to enable digital scheduling and real-time tracking of shipment pickups. It aims to reduce manual processes like phone calls and emails by providing seamless integration for shippers and carriers to collaborate on pickup logistics.
Who It's for
Shippers and LTL Carriers
The Pickup Request Visibility API supports multiple shipment scenarios, including dock and shipment readiness, for a streamlined pre-pickup process.
Features
Shippers and Carriers can use the API to:
- Schedule Pickups: Initiate digital pickup requests.
- Track Pickup Status: Gain real-time updates on truck locations and critical pickup events.
- Update Requests: Modify or reschedule existing pickups.
- Cancel Pickups: Notify carriers to cancel scheduled pickups.
- View Delay Information: Access reasons for delays and updated arrival times.
In-Transit Visibility
In Development
The In-Transit Visibility API is a robust system that provides detailed insights into the shipment’s journey from pickup to delivery. It offers milestone tracking, real-time updates, and exception handling to improve shipment transparency.
Who It's for
LTL Carriers, Shippers, and 3PLs
The In-Transit Visibility API is designed to enhance transparency and trust among stakeholders, minimizing manual inquiries and improving operational efficiency.
Features
This API supports the following functionality:
- Shipment Tracking: Monitor real-time shipment status through all phases.
- Exception Notifications: Receive alerts for delays, damages, or reweigh events.
- Terminal Updates: Gain visibility into shipment statuses at origin, intermediate, and delivery terminals.
- Delivery Status: Get detailed information about missed deliveries or reasons for delays.
- Cross-Border Capabilities: Includes customs status updates and tracking for international shipments.
Preliminary Freight Charges
In Development
The Preliminary Freight Charges (PFC) API is a proactive notification system providing visibility into freight bill charges throughout the shipment lifecycle. It helps reduce disputes, improve payment accuracy, and streamline billing processes.
Who It's for
Shippers, LTL Carriers, and Consignees
The PFC API focuses on providing transparency during transit and ensures accurate invoicing by allowing users to address discrepancies early in the process.
Features
Users can leverage the API to:
- Receive Notifications: Get timely alerts about new or updated freight bills.
- Track Changes: Monitor updates to charges, including accessorial additions and reweighs.
- Improve Payment Accuracy: Facilitate proactive corrections before invoice generation.
- Accrue Costs Effectively: Maintain accurate records for accounting and payment purposes.
Full Truckload API Standards
Coming soon.
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