Glossary—marks and numbers

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marks and numbers

Cargo marks and numbers are the means by which all parties involved in the transportation process identify the cargo, and distinguish a consignment from all others. Typically, "marks" include the name of the consignee, destination port or city, perhaps a unique symbol to aid visual identification from a distance (especially for cargo handlers who cannot read the alphabet of the markings). Marks typically contain the name or symbol of the shipper and/or the consignee, and perhaps an address label (i.e., the full name and address of the consignee). However, for cargo which is a potential target of theft, pilferage, sabotage or seizure/confiscation en route, neutral marks and numbers should be used. The destination port or city should always be included in a shipping mark. Unusually lengthy marks may be abbreviated on shipping documents so long as they continue to clearly and uniquely identify the cargo. Inclusion of the consignee's purchase order or other transaction reference number is a "customer friendly" aid to cargo check-in. The abbreviations "as addressed" or "as addr" or "as consigned" may be used on a straight bill of lading if, and only if, each item of cargo has an address label, and the address shown thereon conforms to the name and address shown in block #3 as consignee. A negotiable bill of lading should explicitly state the marks since "as addressed" implies "as consigned," and the B/L is typically consigned to "order of shipper" or bank. Shipping "numbers" consist simply of the number assigned to and written on each package (shipping unit and/or ULD) for purposes of identifying the sequence of the package in the total package count. Typically, for a 15-package consignment, each package will have a number from 1 to 15; the total count may also be shown on each package, for example, 1/15, 2/15, etc. Package numbers must correspond to the package numbers on the packing list; failure to do so may result in a customs fine or seizure since a customs inspection will reveal a discrepancy in contents between the packing list and the actual packages. See also lot label, target commodity.