PRO

In Amazon’s logistics and transportation ecosystem, the PRO number serves as a freight tracking reference used primarily for less-than-truckload (LTL) and full-truckload (FTL) shipments. It functions like a parcel tracking number, enabling visibility from pickup to delivery at an Amazon fulfilment centre (FC) or consolidation hub.

How It Works:

1. Shipment Creation:
   • When a vendor or Amazon books freight with a carrier, the carrier assigns a PRO number to the bill of lading (BOL).
2. Labeling:
   • The PRO number is printed on the BOL and shipping labels.
3. Tracking:
   • The number is scanned at various checkpoints (pickup, transfer terminals, delivery).
   • Vendors and Amazon use it to track delivery progress, delays, or exceptions.
4. Receiving:
   • Upon arrival at Amazon’s facility, the PRO number links the shipment to its ASN (Advanced Shipment Notification) and PO (Purchase Order) for reconciliation.

Key Data in a PRO Record:

• Carrier name
• PRO number (numeric or alphanumeric)
• BOL (Bill of Lading) number
• Shipment origin and destination
• Pickup and delivery timestamps
• Weight and pallet count
• Delivery status updates

Benefits for Amazon:

• Shipment traceability: Provides end-to-end visibility of inbound and outbound freight.
• Operational efficiency: Facilitates faster receiving and reconciliation at FCs.
• Loss prevention: Helps identify misplaced or delayed shipments.

Benefits for Vendors:

• Accurate tracking: Ensures real-time visibility of deliveries to Amazon.
• Proof of delivery linkage: Used to validate POD (Proof of Delivery) and payment claims.
• Dispute resolution: Supports shortage or delay investigations.

Challenges:

• Manual errors: Incorrect PRO numbers can break tracking chains.
• Carrier dependency: Different carriers may use varying tracking systems.
• Limited digital integration: Some smaller carriers may not update status in real time.

Why It Matters:
The PRO number is essential for freight visibility and accountability in Amazon’s logistics operations. It connects physical shipments to digital purchase and payment workflows, reducing delays and disputes.

Example:
A vendor ships 12 pallets of coffee machines to Amazon’s FC in Spain via an LTL carrier. The carrier assigns PRO #0085493021. Amazon uses this number to track the shipment, confirm delivery, and reconcile it with the vendor’s ASN and PO.

In short:
PRO (Progressive Number) is the carrier-issued tracking number for freight shipments, enabling Amazon and vendors to monitor delivery progress, confirm receipt, and ensure accurate reconciliation of POs and ASNs.