Understanding EDI 210: Motor Carrier Freight Details and Invoice
The EDI 210 is an electronic version of a freight invoice. It is sent by a motor carrier (trucking company) to a shipper, consignee, or third-party billing service, providing detailed information about the shipment and the charges incurred. It replaces traditional paper invoices, offering a faster, more efficient, and error-resistant way to manage freight billing.
What Information Does It Include?
The EDI 210 transaction contains all the essential billing details typically found on a paper invoice, such as:
- Freight charges (line haul, fuel surcharge, accessorial fees)
- Shipment details (pickup and delivery locations, dates, weight, and equipment used)
- Reference numbers (e.g., Bill of Lading, PRO number, PO number)
- Rate and discount information
- Remittance instructions
This level of detail enables both parties to reconcile charges and match invoices to actual shipments quickly.
How It Works in the Transportation Workflow
Here’s a simplified workflow example:
- A motor carrier completes a shipment for a customer.
- Instead of sending a paper invoice, the carrier transmits an EDI 210 to the customer’s accounting system.
- The customer system matches the EDI 210 to a freight shipment confirmation (like EDI 214 or EDI 204) and verifies the charges.
- If everything checks out, the system processes the payment—often automatically.
Benefits of Using EDI 210
✅ Faster Invoicing and Payments
Reduce delays associated with manual data entry and postal delivery.
✅ Greater Accuracy
Minimize billing errors with standardized, machine-readable data.
✅ Cost Savings
Cut administrative costs related to paper handling and human processing.
✅ Improved Cash Flow
Get paid faster and manage accounts receivable more effectively.
The EDI 210 Motor Carrier Freight Details and Invoice transaction is a cornerstone of efficient freight billing in the trucking industry. Whether you’re a carrier looking to speed up your invoicing process or a shipper aiming to improve financial tracking, implementing EDI 210 can lead to streamlined operations and stronger business relationships.
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