EDIFACT IFCSUM — Forwarding and Consolidation Summary
IFCSUM communicates how multiple consignments are grouped, routed, and handed off between forwarder and carriers.
✦ What It Does
Used when a forwarder manages consolidation at CFS or hub level with complex party roles.
Supports ocean/air house bills rolled to master bills with equipment and voyage references.
Less common in pure domestic retail than IFTMIN/IFTSTA but critical in global forwarding.
⚡ When It's Used
- Ocean export consolidation at origin CFS.
- Airfreight ULD build summary to airline.
- Multistop LCL deconsolidation planning.
- Customs pre-lodgement supporting document sets.
- Intermodal handoff between rail and truck legs.
Who Uses EDIFACT IFCSUM
European retail & brands
Common in EDIFACT-first programs where forwarding and consolidation summary flows between HQ, DCs, and suppliers across the EU and APAC.
Global manufacturers
Automotive, industrial, and CPG companies standardize on EDIFACT for plants and suppliers outside North America.
3PLs & carriers
Logistics service providers consume or produce the message when the contract mandates UN/EDIFACT syntax and directories.
Key Segments & Constructs
EDIFACT uses a hierarchical structure: UNH (message header) opens the transaction; BGM (beginning of message) carries the document name and reference; party data uses NAD; lines often use LIN with QTY, PRI, and MOA. Exact segment requirements depend on the message directory (D.96A, etc.) and your trading partner's implementation guide.
BGM
Summary document type for consolidation.
CNI
Consignment item loops linking house shipments.
TDT / LOC
Routing, ports, and transport stages.
MEA / DIM
Weights and measures for ULD or container utilization.
Related Messages
Need Help with EDIFACT IFCSUM?
Better EDI maps, tests, and operates EDIFACT alongside X12—same platform, translation when partners use different standards.
Talk to an EDI Expert