The intricacies of international logistics can often lead to delays, confusion, and miscommunication. One critical aspect that plays a significant role in ensuring the smooth movement of goods across borders is the concept of "Pre-Alert".
In this article, you will learn the following:
What is Pre-Alert in Shipping?
According to Freight Course, Pre-Alert refers to a preliminary notification sent by the shipper or the shipping agent to the recipient or consignee before the arrival of a shipment. It serves as an early warning system, providing the consignee with essential information about future delivery and allowing them to make necessary arrangements.
What Shipment Information is Found on a Pre-Alert?
A pre-alert typically includes crucial shipment details that enable the consignee to prepare for the arrival of the goods. Some standard information found in a pre-alert includes:
Shipper: The sender/seller/exporter of the goods.
Consignee: The receiver/buyer/importer of the goods. Full contact details are indicated on the pre-alert so that brokers and freight forwarders know the delivery address.
MBL/Master AWB Number: The pre-alert will also feature the MBL number for ocean freight shipments or the Master AWB for air freight shipments.
HBL/ House AWB Number: It may also contain a freight forwarder's HBL number for sea freight shipments or a House AWB number for airfreight shipments.
Vessel/ Flight information: The name of the vessel/airline on which the cargo or containers are loaded.
Cargo information: Included here is a brief description of the goods, the type of packaging, the number of items, the weight, the cubage or measurement of the goods and information such as shipping or handling instructions. It can also be the source of information if special trucks or trailers need to be used for on-carriage.
Container number: The container number in which the goods were loaded. This number is only applicable for sea freight shipments.
Packing list: A detailed list of all the items contained in this shipment. These details should include the name, weight and quantity of the goods.
Invoice: Shows a detailed list of the cargo value for each item and in total. This list is the document that customs authorities use to determine the applicable duties and taxes.
Estimated arrival (ETA): The estimated arrival of the vessel or aircraft at the port of discharge or destination airport. An ETA is used for tasks such as manifest sending, special equipment allocation, or shipment planning.
Estimated/Actual Departure (ETD/ATD): A vessel or aircraft estimated departure date. This list indicates the delay between estimated and actual departure dates and confirms when the ship or aircraft has departed.
Port of Loading/Origin Airport: The seaport or airport where the shipment is loaded.
Port of Discharge/Destination Airport: The seaport or airport where the shipment will arrive.
Incoterm: The Incoterm is often indicated as a reference for freight forwarders to understand the responsibility and handover of the shipment.
MSDS: Required when shipping dangerous goods.
Additional Forms: Any other relevant shipping forms (E.g. COO, CoA, Form D, etc.) are included in the pre-alert and relayed to the import broker and freight forwarder at the destination.
Where is the Pre-Alert Sent to?
The pre-alert is typically sent to the 'Notify Party' in the Bill of Lading as an email, which can be one or multiple parties. The notify party is most commonly the destination freight forwarder or the customs broker. Occasionally, the pre-alert is also sent to the consignee so that they are well informed and prepared to receive the shipment promptly, as stated in the previous update by Freight Course.
By providing advance notice and essential shipment details, a Pre-Alert facilitates seamless coordination, helps prevent delays, and enables efficient planning for both shippers and recipients. However, harnessing the full potential of Pre-Alerts requires a reliable partner who understands the complexities of international shipping and offers tailored solutions to optimise the process, like Luwjistik.
How Luwjistik Helps?
Luwjistik is committed to simplifying cross-border logistics and enhancing the Pre-Alert experience for businesses and individuals. With a customer-centric approach, Luwjistik offers two distinct options to cater to your specific needs:
The Modular Approach: Under this option, shippers gather all necessary documents and information related to the shipment and send them to the designated party. Luwjistik provides clear guidance on where to send the Pre-Alert, ensuring the correct information reaches the right stakeholders. This approach empowers shippers with control over their documentation while benefiting from Luwjistik's expertise in routing and communication.
SRI (Smart Routing International): Luwjistik's cutting-edge automated solution, SRI, takes the Pre-Alert process to the next level. This innovative system seamlessly compiles and generates the required documentation, ensuring accurate and timely communication with relevant parties. SRI eliminates manual errors, enhances efficiency, and streamlines the Pre-Alert procedure, allowing businesses to focus on their core operations while maintaining high accuracy in the shipping process.
Take note that if you use our mid-mile service, your pre-alert must be sent to the destination freight forwarder or the customs broker at the destination country. |