This transaction set is used to request logistics services such as transportation, storage, or specialized handling. Shippers, freight forwarders, and 3PLs (third-party logistics providers) send it to carriers, logistics service providers, and warehousing facilities to formally initiate a service request. The B9 (Beginning Segment for Logistics Services) segment establishes the service request type and scope, while the B9A (Service Request) segment allows specification of up to seven distinct service requirements. The L11 (Business Instructions and Reference Number) segment provides critical reference information and handling instructions tied to the request.

Consider a food distributor, Fresh Foods Inc., that needs expedited cold-chain logistics for a shipment of perishable produce to regional retailers. Fresh Foods sends a 219 transaction to Cool Logistics Partners specifying refrigerated transportation, with equipment details captured in the N7 (Equipment Details) loop to confirm reefer-trailer requirements. Cool Logistics receives the request, reviews the shipment details, stop-off locations in the S5 (Stop Off Details) loop, and hazardous material classifications if applicable, then confirms service availability and pricing back to Fresh Foods.