The Complement consignment feature allows external parties to enrich shipment information without logging into nShift TMS. It makes it possible to maintain accurate and complete shipment data across your delivery network, even when not everyone has direct system access. Relevant users can add or update information through a unique public link connected to a specific consignment.
This feature is particularly useful when automated integrations, barcode scanning, or system access are not available.
What this feature is used for
Complement consignment allows authorised external parties to complement and update shipment information, such as:
- Transportation statuses (for example: Picked up, In transit, Delivered)
- ETA and ETD updates
- Price information
- Supporting documents (waybill, signed CMR, proforma invoice)
- Photos of stowed pallets or damaged goods
All updates are written directly to the consignment record in TMS and become part of the official shipment history. Once the information is stored in TMS, you can use triggers and workflows to notify other systems or initiate processes.
Examples:
- Automatically initiate a claim when a photo of damaged goods is uploaded
- Release a sales order to invoicing when a Delivered status is registered
- Notify connected systems when ETA or ETD is updated
Complement consignment is therefore not only a manual update tool, but also a way to drive downstream automation.
How access works
Access is provided through a unique link connected to a specific consignment. The link acts as a secure access token. Anyone who has the link can update that specific shipment, but the link does not grant access to other consignments or system functionality.
Common ways to access Complement consignment include:
- Opening a link from inside an ERP system
- Opening a link from a booking email sent to a carrier
- Scanning a QR code with a mobile phone (for example, when used by a driver)
No login to nShift TMS is required.
How to update a consignment
1. Verify the shipment details
When opening the link, you will see key shipment information such as:
- Consignment number
- Sender and receiver
- Current status
- Latest event timestamp
Always confirm that you are updating the correct shipment before proceeding.
2. Select the information to update
Depending on the configuration, you may be able to:
- Register a transportation status
- Update ETA or ETD
- Add price information
- Upload supporting documentation
Available status options typically include:
- Picked up
- Arrived at terminal
- In transit
- Out for delivery
- Delivered
- Delivery failed
- Returned to sender
Only events configured in your TMS environment will be shown.
3. Set the date and time
Depending on system settings, the current date and time may be filled in automatically. You may be able to adjust the timestamp if the event occurred earlier. Accurate timestamps are important, as they affect tracking visibility and system integrations.
4. Add a comment (optional)
You can add additional details to clarify the update.
Examples:
- Delivered to reception
- Customer not available, retry scheduled
- Left at warehouse gate 3
Comments may be visible in tracking portals and notifications.
5. Submit the update
When you submit the update, the consignment record in TMS is updated immediately, and the event becomes part of the shipmentâs history. Configured notifications and system triggers may be activated. If incorrect information is submitted, a new update can be added to correct the record.
Upload documents
You can attach documents and images directly to the consignment from the public page. This can include both transport documentation and visual proof related to the shipment.
Examples of files you may upload:
- Waybill
- Signed CMR
- Proof of delivery (POD)
- Proforma invoice
- Photos of loaded or stowed pallets
- Photos of damaged parcels or goods
How to upload a file
- Go to the Documents or Upload section.
- Click Upload file, Add document, or the upload icon (depending on your interface).
- Select the file from your device.
- Add a short description if available (for example: Signed CMR, Photo of pallet 3, or Damaged parcel on arrival).
- Click Save or Submit.
The uploaded file becomes part of the consignment record in TMS and is visible to users with access to that shipment.
Security and permissions
Although login is not required, access is restricted through a unique consignment-specific link. Only users who have received the link can update the shipment. The link does not provide access to other consignments or system areas.
For security reasons, share the link only with authorised parties and do not publish the link in public channels.
Best practices
- Always confirm the consignment number before updating
- Use clear and factual comments
- Keep timestamps accurate
- Upload supporting documentation when relevant
- Submit updates as soon as possible after the event occurs
Consistent and accurate updates improve delivery transparency, reduce manual follow-up, and enable automated downstream processes.