Manifest Interface Imports Freight Data from Carriers

Many companies use third-party software applications such as UPS WorldShip and FedEx Ship Manager to support their shipping processes. PowerShift offers a manifest interface that takes information from freight carriers – tracking numbers, freight dollars per package shipped, weights of packages shipped, package sizes, etc. – and updates it to PowerShift data files.

PowerShift’s manifest interface saves time, saves money and enables you to provide better shipment information to your customers:

• No more data entry of tracking numbers and freight costs. Because the information comes directly from the carrier’s export file, keying errors are eliminated.
• The invoicing of freight charges can be automated; that means more accuracy.
• Freight tracking can be handled directly from PowerShift applications with a click of a button.
• Fewer calls from customers to request information on shipments since you provide shipment information on the emailed invoice -- just ask your customer service personnel how many calls they get about shipments already made!

A tool for mapping the third-party data into PowerShift data elements is provided, so you just map each field from the carrier's file to its PowerShift counterpart. Then, set up the export as part of the end of day procedure for the third-party application. The export file is imported to PowerShift after shipments have been confirmed, but before customer invoices have been generated.

Data is updated to the shipment on a package-by-package basis with the sum of the freight being invoiced when appropriate. Freight costs are assigned to invoices based on the freight payment terms and the ship via freight calculation rules. Carrier discounts are supported; just export both the list price to bill the customer and the actual cost you will be charged. You can add a flat amount per package or up-charge actual costs before adding the freight amount to the invoice. 

Freight tracking numbers are added to shipments during the update. The SCAC Codes Maintenance (TSCAC) program allows you to associate a URL with a carrier. A click of the “Track” button in PowerShift programs whisks you to the carrier’s web page so you can see up-to-date shipment information directly from the carrier. Include the same URL information when you email the packing list or invoice and the customer can click on the link to see the status of of their shipment. No more “Has it shipped yet?” and “What’s the tracking number?” calls!

Contact the Qantel Helpdesk to learn more about the manifest interface or other PowerShift features.