Consider two electronic data interchange (EDI) documents — 753 Request for Routing Instructions and 754 Routing Instructions — that aren’t adopted by most buyers, but they are used by a big one: Amazon.

If Amazon EDI requires them, that is reason enough to take a few minutes to discover how these two documents work, am I right? Let’s get to it.

EDI 753 REQUEST FOR ROUTING INSTRUCTIONS

The EDI 753 is an electronic document sent from suppliers to their buyers, oftentimes when the shipment is packed and ready to head out. It’s a note that says, “Yo! How do you want your stuff?”

Just kidding. It’s actually a set of data elements, segments and envelopes formatted via EDI standards and includes things like the PO details, weight, dimensions, and the “ship from” address. In response, the buyer sends an EDI 754 Routing Instructions.

Most of the time, an EDI 753 comes into play when the seller is shipping the goods “collect” — i.e., the buyer is paying the freight costs. Why would a buyer do this? Some wish to have complete control of their inbound inventory rather than rely on the supplier’s logistics. And because they are paying for the freight, they want to call the shots via the EDI 754.

EDI 754 ROUTING INSTRUCTIONS

After an EDI 753 is received, the buyer sends an EDI 754 document back to the supplier containing answers to all of life’s questions.

Kidding again. Just wanted to make sure you’re still with me.

The Routing Instructions document is the buyer’s way of authorizing the shipment. In addition, the 754 data set tells the supplier exactly how the retailer or distributor would like the items to be shipped: What carrier to use, pick up date and time, ship from and ship to locations, and number of trailers for the shipment.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

Once the supplier has the directive from the 854, the logistics are secured and out it goes. Supplier sends an EDI 856 Advance Ship Notice letting the buyer know the goods are en route.

EDI 753/754 RETAILERS

Amazon isn’t the only major merchant using these EDI documents — JCPenney, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Kohl’s are a part of the gang too.

With more than 4,000 facilities worldwide, the U.S. Department of Defense’s largest military retailer, Army & Air Force Exchange Service, is another business in this group.

WHAT HAPPENS IF I DON’T SEND A 753?

Unfortunately, most buyers will assign a fee for non-compliance. For example, when Amazon is paying the freight charges, the Routing Request document is a must. If this step is missed or skipped, you can count on an Amazon chargeback fee.

NO WORRIES

If the thought of chargeback fees brings some stress today, take a deep breath, let it go, and let the experts at BOLD VAN take on the worry for you.

BOLD VAN supports EDI 753 and 754 documents; we will set up your system so this is all automated. You won’t have to worry about getting in trouble with Amazon — or anyone else using these forms — because we have you covered.

Contact us to learn more: call 844-265-3777 or email info@boldvan.com.