Walmart ASN (Advanced Shipping Notice) Guide
An Advanced Shipping Notice (ASN) is an electronic notification sent to Walmart before your shipment arrives. Incorrect or late ASNs result in chargebacks and delayed receiving.
What Is an ASN?
The ASN tells Walmart:
- What you're shipping (items, quantities, UPCs)
- When it will arrive (expected delivery date)
- How it's being shipped (carrier, tracking, BOL number)
- Where it's going (DC, store number)
ASN Timing Requirements
| Shipment Type | ASN Due | Penalty for Late ASN |
|---|---|---|
| Collect (Walmart arranges) | Before pickup | $500+ per occurrence |
| Prepaid (you arrange) | 24 hours before delivery | $500+ per occurrence |
| Import | Per PO terms | Varies |
ASN Accuracy Requirements
- SKU accuracy: Must match PO exactly
- Quantity accuracy: Must match physical shipment
- Carton count: Must match actual carton count
- Weight: Must match actual weight (within tolerance)
- BOL number: Must match carrier's BOL
Common ASN Errors
| Error | Impact | Prevention |
|---|---|---|
| Missing ASN | Chargeback + delayed receiving | Automate ASN generation |
| Wrong quantities | Chargeback (in-full violation) | Verify counts before sending |
| Late ASN | Chargeback | Send immediately after shipping |
| Wrong DC/store | Shipment refused | Verify routing guide |
| Wrong BOL number | Receiving delays | Confirm with carrier |
ASN Best Practices
- Automate ASN generation — Integrate your ERP/WMS with Walmart's EDI system
- Send ASN same day as ship — Don't wait until the next business day
- Verify accuracy — Cross-check ASN against physical shipment before sending
- Keep records — Archive all ASNs for chargeback disputes
- Monitor compliance — Track ASN accuracy in Walmart's Retail Link
EDI Requirements
Walmart uses EDI 856 for ASN transmission. Your options:
- Direct EDI connection (requires EDI software)
- EDI service provider (recommended for smaller suppliers)
- Walmart's web portal (manual entry, limited)
Need Walmart Logistics Support?
Indray provides Walmart-compliant transportation with proper ASN coordination. Contact us for integrated Walmart logistics.
