This transaction set enables shippers, freight brokers, and third-party logistics providers to inquire about the status of motor carrier shipments. Typically sent to motor carriers or transportation management systems, the 213 inquiry prompts carriers to provide current shipment visibility and delivery status information. The B11 (Beginning Segment for Shipment Status Inquiry) segment establishes the inquiry parameters, while the REF (Reference Identification) segment allows the sender to specify which shipment is being tracked using bill of lading numbers, purchase order references, or other identifiers. The N1 (Name) loop optionally identifies parties involved in the transaction, such as the shipper, consignee, or carrier being queried.

Consider a scenario where ABC Distribution Center needs to track a time-sensitive shipment to their customer. ABC Distribution sends a 213 inquiry to Superior Freight Lines, referencing bill of lading #S88-4421 in the REF segment and identifying ABC Distribution as the shipper in the N1 loop. Superior Freight Lines receives this inquiry and responds with current location and estimated delivery information. This allows ABC Distribution to proactively communicate delivery expectations to their customer without making phone calls to the carrier, improving supply chain visibility and operational efficiency.