Q4 Promotions: Stop Shortage Deductions Early
- The HRG Team
- Oct 23
- 2 min read
Promotions drive trial. They also drive split shipments, display kits, and hurry-up orders. That’s the perfect storm for “shortages” that weren’t actually short.
Shortage deductions ramp during peak because receiving teams are processing more cartons in less time. Accurate ASNs and carton labels meaningfully reduce those errors by matching what arrives to what was ordered—before it hits the dock. Multiple sources show ASNs cut receiving errors and costs by aligning contents, schedules, and staff to the shipment.
Barcodes and labels matter, too. GS1-linked research highlights how barcode readability issues are common in logistics environments; poor label quality and inconsistent labeling create scanning errors that show up later as “not found/not received.” Get the label right, and half the battle is over.
Fictional example (clearly hypothetical)
“SnackCo” ships promo trays as 12-packs, but the ASN still shows 24s. DC receiving flags half the pallets as short. The evidence? Misaligned pack-count logic in the WMS export. Correct the data, re-send the ASN, upload PODs—suddenly, the “shorts” disappear.
Promo Pack Readiness (shortage prevention checklist)
Item & pack sync: Align base item vs. display/PDQ UPCs, inner/outer packs, and tray counts.
Carton labels: Confirm scannable SSCC, correct GTINs, and clear human-readable counts. (Barcode readability issues are common—test scans.)
ASN detail: Include carton quantities, weights/dims, and any mixed-SKU logic; send updates if picks change.
Carrier playbook: Ensure carriers know which carton IDs are on each pallet; attach BOL, packing list, and delivery contacts.
POD automation: Auto-pull PODs from portals to cut dispute cycle time—faster proof wins faster credits.
Receiving feedback loop: After the first loads, ask DCs what’s confusing and fix it the same day.
If shortages still land, move quickly. Some retailers or their auditors treat claims as binding if not addressed within a defined window (e.g., 60 days). Speed and documentation are your leverage.
HRG’s approach combines documentation hygiene (PODs, ASNs, label audits) with targeted disputes—so your team can stay focused on selling, not screenshot-hunting.
