This transaction set communicates shipment weight data between trading partners in the supply chain. Typically, a carrier, logistics provider, or warehouse sends a 440 to shippers, receivers, or their designated agents to report weights captured during shipment processing. The message is often transmitted in response to a shipment notification or as part of the normal fulfillment process. The BW (Beginning Segment for Weight Message Set) segment establishes the context and identifies the shipment being weighed, while the G5 (Weight Information) segment—which may appear up to 255 times—records individual weight measurements. The optional G4 (Scale Identification) segment provides details about the weighing equipment used, ensuring traceability of the measurement source.

For example, when ABC Logistics receives a pallet shipment from XYZ Manufacturing destined for Regional Retailers Inc., the warehouse staff places it on an automated scale. ABC Logistics then sends a 440 transaction set to XYZ Manufacturing documenting the total shipment weight and any weights for individual line items or package groups captured by the G5 segments. If the scale used is a certified calibrated unit, ABC Logistics includes the G4 segment identifying that specific scale. This weight data helps XYZ Manufacturing reconcile actual versus expected shipment mass and supports freight billing accuracy for all parties involved.