What is the first step to take before issuing a Comcheck number to a carrier?

Before issuing a Comcheck number to a carrier, it is essential to ensure that all necessary preliminary steps are taken to promote compliance and efficiency in the process. Checking carrier permissions is vital because it confirms that the carrier is authorized to handle the load and has met the company’s requirements. Verifying that the shipper is loaded is equally important, as issuing a Comcheck without confirming that the goods are ready for transport could lead to complications and potential delays. Additionally, checking with the Load Assignment Executive (LAE) is crucial, as they can provide insights into the specific shipment requirements and any particular instructions that might pertain to that load.

By taking all these steps—checking carrier permissions, verifying the shipper is loaded, and consulting with the LAE—prior to issuing a Comcheck number, you ensure that the process is handled correctly, reducing the risk of issues that could arise later in the shipping process. Thus, the most comprehensive approach is to acknowledge the importance of all these actions combined as the first step in the process.