In the logistics industry, the shipping process is a crucial stage that determines customer satisfaction. It involves basic terms that might be unfamiliar to ordinary consumers.

This reality often leads to misunderstandings when asking about package status, filing complaints, or communicating with sellers and couriers.

For online business owners, understanding shipping terms is essential. It not only helps explain details clearly to buyers but also builds trust and professionalism in business.

To ensure smooth communication between sellers, buyers, and shipping providers, here are some important shipping terms worth knowing:

1. Delivery order (DO)

A Delivery Order (DO) is an official instruction from the seller to the courier company to deliver goods to the buyer.

On e-commerce platforms, DOs are usually issued automatically upon payment confirmation. This document serves as the basis for the courier to process the shipment.

2. Part of shipment (POS)

POS is a method for consolidating shipments from multiple senders into a single container. The goal is to reduce distribution costs. However, this method usually takes longer since goods must be consolidated first.

3. Bill of Lading (B/L)

A Bill of Lading is a legal document issued by the shipping company. It serves as proof of ownership and a shipping contract, especially for sea freight and import-export transactions.

4. Shipper

The shipper is the goods sender. In e-commerce, the shipper is the seller who prepares, packages, and hands over the goods to the courier.

5. Shipping Schedule

A Shipping Schedule provides departure times and estimated arrival dates. This information is crucial for tracking and estimating delivery times, particularly for sea or air shipments.

6. Packing List

A Packing List details the items in a shipment, including type, quantity, weight, and handling instructions. It helps ensure items are checked properly and prevents mix-ups or losses.

7. Shipping Mark & Number

A Shipping Mark is an identification code on the package, usually in the form of symbols or numbers. It helps track shipments and prevents handling errors during delivery.

8. Consignee (CNEE)

The consignee is the recipient of the goods. Consignee information must be complete, including name, address, and contact number, to ensure proper delivery.

9. Description of Goods

This is a detailed description of the items being shipped. It affects shipping costs, insurance, and customs clearance processes.

10. Gross Weight & Net Weight

• Gross Weight: The weight of the goods, including packaging.
• Net Weight: The weight of the goods without packaging.

This distinction is important for calculating shipping costs, especially for cargo shipments.

11. Container Freight Station (CFS)

CFS is a facility for consolidating goods in Less-than-Container Load (LCL) shipments. It allows shipping without requiring a full container.

12. Less than Container Load (LCL)

LCL shipping is suitable for medium-volume goods. Items from multiple shippers are combined into one container for cost efficiency.

13. Full Container Load (FCL)

FCL shipping means one container is filled with goods from a single shipper. It is more efficient for large volumes and safer from the risk of mixing goods.

By understanding these shipping terms, business owners can provide accurate and detailed information about the delivery statusto prevent complaints from consumers.

Choose the Right Logistics Company

One logistics company known for comprehensive shipping services is SELOG, a business line of PT Serasi Autoraya (SERA), which is also part of the Astra Group.

With over 20 years of experience, SELOG offers various end-to-end logistics services. They range from Trucking, Shipping Services, Freight Forwarding, and Warehousing to Project Cargo.

Driven by the latest digital technologies, SELOG Services not only bring better convenience to your business but are also practical and efficient.

Including the Astra Fleet Management Solution (AstraFMS) and Warehouse Management System (WMS).

For more information about SELOG’s services and profile, visit its official website at www.selog.astra.co.id or follow it on Instagram @selog_astra and LinkedIn SELOG.