As Fall Shipping Season is officially here, now is the time to review your Trading Partner’s Vendor Requirements. The competitive nature of the retail environment has magnified retailers’ need to optimize their supply chains through automated receiving processes. These processes are dependent on 100% supplier compliance with EDI and GS1-128 shipping label requirements.
The most effective way to reduce and/or eliminate offset expenses is to hone in on performance. You can improve your company’s performance as we have outlined in our most recent newsletter:
1. Confirm compliance. You know the phrase about the word “assume” so don’t make the assumption your company is in compliance. Certify your GS1-128 shipping labels. New personnel and system changes require updated certification for each retailer. A simple $75 testing/certification fee will go a long way in saving your company thousands of dollars and conflict with key trading partners.
For more info go to: www.barcode-us.com/testing/retailerPrograms.html
2. Educate key personnel handling cartons. Emphasize the importance of GS1-128 Shipping Label Placement to any and all personnel responsible for handling cartons. Compliant labels placed on the wrong panel are of no value to retailers who scan cartons using fixed mounted scanners on conveyor belts. Supply chain requirements can vary a great deal between different retailers. Label placement is crucial; keep your personnel informed.
3. Perform routine maintenance. It sounds simple enough but keeping your printing equipment in top form is invaluable. Confirm supplies are suited for your application. Did you know print quality related issues account for the largest percentage of GS1-128 complicance charges? It pays to be proactive. If you are using thermal printers to generate GS1-128 shipping labels, replace the printhead and better yet, keep a spare in-house.
4. Constantly review requirements. Track requirements and convey information to key personnel within your company. Stay current and make this a part of your routine. If your company does business with several retailers, go to www.tradingpartner.info and sign up for a free 30-day trial subscription to keep you and your staff updated.
It is each company’s responsibility to share this objective and implement the necessary processes to achieve 100% compliance. The keys to success are rooted in Communication, Education and Training of each retail trading partner requirements. If your company is in need of assistance, contact us – we’re here to help you with your shipping label needs and compliance.
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