What is DESADV?
DESADV: The standardized delivery notification as a basis for efficient handling
Increasing digital networking is shaping standards in e-commerce, but also in related areas. For example, the customer requests specific information on when to expect delivery. This information must contain the description, the product type as well as the quantity. A globally established system in this context, which is embedded as a function in the warehouse management system, is called DESADV.
proLogistik explains the term, shows how this electronic delivery notification works and what it means, and explains what added value it brings to practice.
Definition DESADV: What exactly is it about?
The term DESADV stands for despatch advice and describes a standardized electronic delivery notification. It contains important information about the program as such, in particular:
- Description of the delivery/goods
- Details breakdown
- Information about a timely or late delivery
DESADV functions as an electronic shipping notification within the EANCOM® standard, which in turn represents the state-of-the-art standard in the consumer goods industry. EANCOM® in turn is a subset of EDIFACT, an internationally used data format for the representation and use of electronic data.
This means: DESADV provides certain information regarding the delivery in a standardized format, which shippers can use specifically. For example, in the event of a delayed delivery that affects production processes. In this context, DESADV is to be understood as an electronic delivery notification, i.e. a type of delivery bill that is made available to the customer even before the delivery is received.
Functionality and significance of DESADV in business transactions
The more strongly individual work steps and processes are interlinked, the better they can be coordinated. Nevertheless, certain information is needed, especially where one step follows the next - and the whole process comes to a direct standstill if preliminary products or auxiliary materials are not available on time. An electronic delivery notification, i.e. the specific announcement of a delivery, makes it possible to design production precisely with this in mind.
- Notifications about delays help to check alternatives or to change processes.
- Electronic notifications based on DESADV narrow down the time of delivery so that processes can be planned at an early stage.
- Time savings as a result of DESADV reporting have a positive impact on productivity, which in turn benefits competitiveness.
Not to be forgotten: Unlike the classic paper delivery bill, an electronic delivery notification is available at an early stage. Important information, including weight, quantity and delivery description, helps to plan further steps. In addition, compatibility is given, since DESADV represents a uniform, internationally recognized format.
DESADV: Can be used independently of the ERP system
The structure of the file format, which characterizes each DESADV message, can be read by any common ERP or merchandise management system. The data export is possible without any problems. ensures a conversion to the respective target format. DESADV can thus be used to ensure reconciliation with the merchandise management system, which in turn significantly reduces manual effort. Everything that is necessary for this can be seen by means of a barcode scan.
The following data or information can be found in a DESADV message:
- Document date
- Order number
- Supplier
- Buyer or orderer
- Invoice recipient
- Ship-to party
- Buyer item number
- Item number
Important: By exchanging DESADV files, mutually significant processes can be clearly communicated between suppliers and recipients. This is particularly important in the food sector, because procurement and distribution are decisive factors in efficient business processes. By making it centrally and clearly visible which delivery arrives when exactly and in which form, goods receipts can be controlled in the best possible way. This in turn is the basis for cross-docking processes or delivery to individual points of sale. Efficient warehouse management is possible with DESADV - for this reason, every warehouse management system (WMS) also has a corresponding function.
