ASN Updates Coming Your Way

Target suppliers in May because compliance updates didn’t catch them off guard.

Greetings Vendorville,

We’ve all heard of an Advance Ship Notice (ASN). It is a simple document that tells retailers what’s coming, when it’s coming, and how it’s packed. Suppliers send these electronically, through EDI 856, so retailers can plan ahead, receive shipments smoothly, and reduce surprises.

But that raises a question...

If suppliers notify retailers about what’s coming, who notifies suppliers?

Well, that’s where Vendorville’s ASN—Advance Supplier Notice—comes in. Just like the ASNs you send to retailers, this Vendorville update is your very own Advance Supplier Notice about Target’s upcoming compliance changes, rolling out in May 2025.

Shipment History (What You Already Know)

ASNs have always played a key role in keeping shipments organized and ensuring retailers receive exactly what they expect. If you’ve been shipping to Target, you’re already familiar with the basics:

Submit ASNs before delivery to keep shipments on track
Ensure ASNs match the PO so the receiving team isn’t confused
Keep barcodes clear and scannable for smooth processing

These aren’t new—but starting in May, Target is tightening the rules and adding compliance fees for ASN and barcode errors.

Order Information (What's Changing)

ASN Availability – EDI 856

ASNs must still be submitted before shipments arrive, but now, compliance fees will be charged per carton ($0.75 per carton), instead of a flat rate.

ASN Accuracy (Shipment & Item-Level)

Target will now be double-checking shipment details more closely:
- Shipment Accuracy: Your BOL number must be formatted correctly.
- Item Accuracy: Case pack, barcode, and item details must match the PO exactly.

Physical Barcode Accuracy

If a barcode is blurry, unreadable, or missing, it could result in a compliance fee.
Every carton must have a legible, scannable barcode to meet Target’s updated standards.

Special Handling Instructions (How to Prepare)

No one likes scrambling at the last minute—especially when compliance fees are involved. Here’s how to stay ahead before May arrives:

Double-check your ASNs before sending them. A small mistake now could mean a big charge later.
Test your barcodes before shipping. If they scan cleanly in your warehouse, they’ll scan properly at Target’s DCs.
Loop in your team. Whether it’s your warehouse crew, logistics team, or compliance folks, make sure everyone is aware of these changes before they go into effect.

Receiving Confirmation (Final Notes)

This ASN was issued to help you get ahead of Target’s compliance rules.
Vendorville’s Advance Supplier Notice ensures you’re always in the know. 😉

Packaged Delivered

📦 Target Compliance Glossary

📦 Target Supplier Performance Management Compliance Updates

📦 Target Retail Calendar Year

Retailer News 🗞️

Consumer Goods

J.M Smucker Decoupling Supply Chain Organization

“J.M Smucker is restructuring its business, decoupling its supply chain and manufacturing organizations to improve oversight and execution.”

Retail Dive

Why Does Walmart Want a Shopping Mall?

“Walmart recently expanded its real estate portfolio with a $34 million purchase.”

Supply Chain Dive

Target Strives for Better Inventory Management, Unloading Processes

“The retailer’s supply chain chief said technology and automation can help produce a more efficient inventory mix and flow into stores.”

⭐ Rick’s Tips ⭐

“To view your store level instock percentages in Scintilla go to Walmart Scintilla > Report Builder > New Report > Store Sales & Inventory (SSI). Select key metrics like Instock % and Replenishment Instock %. Apply the Walmart Calendar Week filter and refine by store, item, or DC for better insights. Click “Create” and enable email notifications since reports can take 30–60 minutes to process. If you need Store Replenishment Instock %, pull it from the FY Vendor Scorecard or Vendor Scorecard instead.”

Let’s Circle Back

By now, you’ve probably started your day with a little Wordle warm-up, tested your pattern finding skills in Connections, or raced through the Mini Crossword like a pro. Maybe you’ve even dabbled in LinkedIn’s Queens or Cross Climb—because, let’s be honest, these are all vital parts of the workday.

Well, we’re here to add one more essential brain exercise to your daily routine. 📌 Have you ever heard of Murdle?

If you haven’t, prepare to channel your inner detective. Murdle is a daily mystery puzzle where you analyze clues, eliminate suspects, and solve a whodunit—all before your next meeting starts. Think Clue meets logic puzzle, with just the right amount of challenge to make you feel like Sherlock Holmes (or at least the best detective in Vendorville).

Until Next Time,

Vendorville ♥️