Dear Sir or Madam
Our processes could no longer be further optimised with the “order/release number”. In order to ensure our performance in terms of improved information flow, traceability, automation and digitalisation, we have switched our communication to delivery references.
This means that instead of an “order/release number” for e.g. 4 lorries, we will use the “delivery/GSIN number” to assign 4 references for the individual lorries (1 reference per means of transport).
Internally we have changed the processes in December 2023, from March 2024 all deliveries UFA AG will only work with the “DELIVERY/GSIN NUMBER”. Please be prepared if you are asked for the delivery/GSIN number in addition to the order/release number so that delays in loading or unloading can be avoided.
In the course of complete traceability and automation per means of transport, it is imperative that the “delivery/GSIN number” is used on all documents you create in future instead of the familiar “order/release number”.
In the coming months, the processing of supplier invoices will be converted to “delivery/GSIN number”.
Please note that the “Delivery/GSIN number” is a number that is unique and can only be used once.
If you have any questions, you will find a FAQ below with possible questions that you may have. If you still have further questions, please contact the person who sent you the document with the link to this page. This person will certainly be able to help you further or take up the question and find out about it internally.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Why do we use the GSIN number?
Thanks to the characteristics of the GSIN number, we can guarantee traceability and provide reliable electronic data interchange (EDI).
The digitalisation of the delivery process (planning, loading, customs clearance, unloading, control, …) is carried out thanks to/with this GSIN number.
The GSIN number will also be used as a reference for the invoices. Which also allows us to automate the invoicing process and therefore a fast payment of the invoices.
Where can I find the GSIN number on the document?
You will usually find the GSIN number at the bottom of the documents you receive.
I cannot enter the entire GSIN number in the system.
The GSIN number can be shortened. The last 9 numbers are mandatory.
I cannot print the entire GSIN number on the documents.
The GSIN number can be shortened. The last 9 numbers are mandatory.
Can I use the GSIN more than once?
No, the GSIN is a unique number that can only be used once.
What happens to the “order/release number”?
The “order/release number” remains the same. So that we can digitise the delivery process, we also need a unique ID for each delivery.
Example (lorry): the order (4711) of 100,000 kg is delivered in 4 deliveries/trucks (0815, 0816, 0817, 0818) of 25,000 kg each.
What reference do I need to include on my invoices?
The GSIN number will also be used as a reference for the invoices. This also allows us to automate the invoicing process and therefore ensure fast payment of invoices.
What is a GSIN number?
A unique identification of a delivery according to the GS1 standard GSIN (Global Shipment Identification Number) is a standardised solution (GS1 standard) recognised / used worldwide (more information at https://www.gs1.org/standards/id-keys/gsin).
When is a GSIN number used?
The GSIN number is a number assigned by a seller, shipper or carrier of goods to identify a consignment. The logistical units keep the same GSIN during all stages of transport, from origin to final destination.
What are the advantages of a GSIN number?
- Each GSIN number is unique due to a defined structure:
(i) Company prefix https://www.gs1.org/standards/id-keys/company-prefix,
(ii) Shipping reference,
(iii) check digit (such as an IBAN or credit card number) - A GSIN number may not be used more than once for ten (10) years.
- The GSIN number can be displayed/encoded in a barcode (on a logistics label)
- The GSIN number fulfils the requirements for a unique consignment reference (UCR) according to the World Customs Organisation.