Full Integration API Workflow

This integration workflow outlines the sequential usage of each API endpoint to facilitate a complete shipment lifecycle—from obtaining a quote to tracking the shipment and retrieving relevant documents. This process enables efficient management of LTL shipments, using Kuehne + Nagel’s LTL+ APIs.

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1. RateQuote API

• Purpose: Obtain shipping rates for a proposed shipment.
• Input:
  • Origin and Destination details
  • Shipment weight, dimensions, and any additional requirements (e.g., Hazmat, special handling).
• Output:
  • Returns a list of carrier options with the cost estimate and expected transit time for the shipment.
• Example Workflow Step: First, use the RateQuote API to determine pricing and logistics details based on the shipment parameters.

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2. Bill Of Lading (BOL) API

• Purpose: Generate a Bill of Lading for the shipment based on the confirmed rate.
• Input:
  • Detailed shipper, consignee, and carrier information
  • Selected carrier with rate details from the previous RateQuote step
• Output:
  • A Bill of Lading (BOL) PDF for the shipment, which includes a unique BOL number. This document will be handed to the driver at pickup
• Example Workflow Step: Use the BOL API to create a BOL document that will accompany the shipment.

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3. LoadTender API

• Purpose: Submit a pickup request to the carrier, initiating the shipping process.
• Input:
  • BOL details from the previous step, pickup date, and additional shipment-specific information.
• Output:
  • A confirmation ID and scheduled pickup details.
• Example Workflow Step: Submit a tender request to arrange pickup based on the BOL created, confirming carrier engagement.

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4. Shipment Tracking API

• Purpose: Retrieve near-real-time tracking updates on the shipment.
• Input:
  • Shipment identifier (e.g., BOL number, PO number, Pro number) from the Bill Of Lading.
• Output:
  • Detailed status updates for the shipment’s journey.
• Example Workflow Step: Track the shipment’s progress and receive alerts on status changes or delays, ensuring up-to-date visibility.

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5. Invoicing API

• Purpose: Generate an invoice for completed shipments.
• Input:
  • BOL number or other shipment identifiers
  • Additional invoicing details, if applicable
• Output:
  • Invoice PDF and other billing information.
• Example Workflow Step: Upon delivery, use the Invoicing API to finalize billing, making sure all costs are accurately reflected for the shipment.

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6. Document Retrieval API

• Purpose: Access and retrieve documents associated with the shipment, such as proof of delivery (POD) or signed BOL.
• Input:
  • BOL number, Pro number, or other shipment identifier
• Output:
  • PDF documents relevant to the shipment.
• Example Workflow Step: After invoicing, retrieve any signed documents to complete the shipment’s documentation requirements and archive the files as needed.

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This full integration flow allows for streamlined shipment management and a cohesive view of the shipment lifecycle from start to finish.