To create a new shipment using a specialty provider on the platform follow these steps:
- Login to the 7bridges platform and go to the Shipments area
- Click the green 'Create new +' button
- Enter the shipment reference (eg PO Number from your ERP) and click "Create Shipment" to manually create a new shipment booking
- You'll be presented with several sections that need to be completed before you can get a label and any relevant shipping documentation. These sections include Shipping Addresses, Packages, Shipping method and Confirm page.
- As you are shipping with a specialty provider they require the information about the goods being shipping so ensure to populate this at the packaging stage. You will also be able to define the temperature range the package should be shipped at aswell as whether you need the provider to supply the packaging.
- Note if you are shipping to an international destination that requires a customs declaration you will need to provide the customs information similar to processing a shipment with an integrator (note paperless trade is not possible with Specialty providers)
- Provided 7bridges have been given and ingested your rate cards with Specialty providers we will be able to generate rates in real time for you to choose from. Otherwise you will be able to generate a quote request directly to your chosen providers should a rate not be available - see this article on how to generate a spot quote
- After selecting rates, review all the entered information on the confirmation page to ensure the addresses and packaging info are all correct. Then click on "Request Booking". Unlike the integrators the specialty providers currently don't give approval in real time so the 7bridges platform submits a booking request with all required information to the provider for review. At this point you would also include any medical declarations etc prior to submitting the request
- After you have submitted the booking request to the provider it will sit in the "Requested" state.
- It will also show in the Shipments dashboard in the Attention tab highlighting that it's currently awaiting booking confirmation.
- Once the provider has reviewed the booking request they will approve it directly on the 7bridges platform providing the AWB/Tracking Number, Collection Date, Labels and any supporting documents required. The requesting user will receive an email notification advising that the booking has been confirmed (this can be sent to a group mailbox)
- You will now be able to access the confirmed shipment to get the tracking number, collection date as well as download the labels and any required documentation sent by the provider.
- Congratulations! You've successfully booked a speciality shipment through 7bridges.