IFTMAN message completes cargo traceability in retailer logistics
The IFTMAN message is, in EDIFACT language, the notification of arrival of goods. In electronic data interchange (EDI), this message provides information about the arrival of the shipment before it reaches its destination. Knowing the status of the goods from the moment they are shipped, during transport, and until delivery is valuable information that improves customer service. Cargo traceability is a factor that builds trust in both B2C (Business to consumer) and B2B (Business to business) environments, but in the latter, traceability also means efficiency and helps to successfully complete the logistics chain flow.
IFTMAN is part of the flow of messages exchanged in the process of transporting goods between suppliers and customers who work with EDI solutions and is applied in any area of distribution. Specifically, this message is sent by the supplier of the goods or the agent contracted for their transport to the customer, and provides information on the arrival of the goods (date, time, etc.). Together with the DESADV message, or shipping notice, it constitutes a fundamental document for the receipt of goods. While the DESADV or ASN notifies the moment the goods are shipped, the IFTMAN indicates the date on which they will arrive.
What advantages does the IFTMAN message offer?
The more information shared between the agents involved in the logistics chain of goods distribution, the greater the security and guarantees of efficiency. In this sense, the IFTMAN message is a link in the chain that seeks to:
- Plan the arrival of goods at the destination unloading docks: this prevents the accumulation of trucks, the collapse of unloading docks, and unnecessary waiting times for carriers.
- Ensure good management of unloading operations, one of the key phases of distribution.
- Avoid stoppages of goods, which, depending on the type of product, is more relevant for food or pharmaceutical products due to changes in temperature.
- Comply with scheduled times.
- Greater control of the process, allowing for quick action in the event of an unforeseen event or failure in the chain.
What are the advantages of the IFTMAN message?
One of the trends in logistics in the distribution sector is Supply Chain Visibility (SCV). The application of technological solutions optimizes distribution channels and communication between partners and the end customer. Through electronic data interchange (EDI) solutions, it is possible to monitor cargo and its traceability, so that the parties involved have access to information about the goods at all times and can validate it. EDI solutions allow information to be exchanged through different messages that make it possible to manage goods directly or indirectly (ORDERS, INSDES, OSPRTP, RECADV, INVRPT, DESADV, IFTMAN).
SCV provides 24-hour cargo control; it improves operations because real-time information allows unexpected problems in the supply flow to be corrected or responses to be made to variations in demand; it reduces costs and has a positive impact on the customer experience and satisfaction levels.
Solutions and services
EDICOM is a leading technology company in Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) solutions, positioning itself as a strategic partner for the retail and logistics sector.
Through its EDI solutions and its global network of partners, EDICOMNet, suppliers and distributors are connected via a single communications platform that allows them to:
- Process electronic messages in multiple international standards (such as XML, EDIFACT, X12, among others).
- Manage the sending and receiving of documents using any communication protocol (AS2, OFTP2, FTP, Web Services, etc.).
- Implement a robust B2B platform that facilitates the automated, secure, and continuous exchange of commercial documents with any business partner: orders, shipping notices, electronic invoices, among others.
This comprehensive connectivity optimizes operational flows, reduces manual errors, and improves efficiency throughout the supply chain.
