Shipping manifest
What Is a Shipping Manifest?
A shipping manifest is an essential logistics document, detailing all items being transported on a ship, airplane, or vehicle. It includes information such as the names and addresses of the shipper and consignee, descriptions of the cargo, the quantity and weight of each item, and any special handling instructions. The manifest helps ensure that all parties involved in the shipping process, including customs authorities and logistics providers, have a clear understanding of the cargo being transported.
Who Creates a Shipping Manifest?
A shipping manifest is typically created by the carrier or shipping line. It is compiled based on information provided by shippers and includes details about all the cargo being transported.
How to Create a Shipping Manifest
Creating a shipping manifest involves several key steps:
- Gather Information: Collect all necessary details about the cargo, including descriptions, quantities, weights, and any special handling requirements.
- Organize Data: Arrange the information in a structured format, typically including sections for the shipper, consignee, and cargo details.
- Use Templates: Utilize standard templates provided by shipping companies or logistics software to ensure all required information is included.
- Verify Accuracy: Double-check all entries for accuracy to avoid any discrepancies during transit.
What Does It Mean When Cargo Is 'Manifested'?
A cargo tracking status of 'manifested' means that the details of the shipment have been entered into the shipping manifest. This status indicates that the shipment has been recorded and documented by the carrier and is ready to be loaded and transported.
When cargo is manifested, it confirms that the following steps have been completed:
- Documentation: The shipment details, including descriptions, quantities, weights, and consignee information, have been thoroughly documented.
- Verification: The carrier has reviewed and verified the cargo information to ensure accuracy and completeness.
- Readiness for Transport: The cargo is now officially part of the shipment manifest, signifying that it is prepared for loading onto the transport vehicle.
Shipping Manifest vs. Customs Manifest
While a shipping manifest and a customs manifest contain similar information, there are key differences:
- Shipping Manifest: Primarily used by carriers and logistics providers to track and manage cargo during transport. It includes detailed information about the shipment for operational purposes.
- Customs Manifest: Specifically used for customs clearance. It includes all the necessary details required by customs authorities to process and approve the entry or exit of goods across international borders.
Shipping Manifest vs. Delivery Manifest
While a shipping manifest details the cargo being transported from the origin to the destination, a delivery manifest focuses on the final stage (last mile) of the logistics process. The delivery manifest lists the specific items to be delivered to individual consignees, including detailed delivery instructions and confirmation of receipt upon delivery.
Shipping Manifest vs. Packing List
A shipping manifest is a detailed document listing all the cargo on a vessel, including information like weight, destination, and consignee, and is used primarily by customs and port authorities for tracking and regulatory purposes. A packing list, on the other hand, is a document provided by the shipper that details the specific contents of each package, including quantities, dimensions, and packaging type, and is used by both the shipper and consignee to ensure the accuracy of the shipment. While both documents outline cargo details, the shipping manifest is for logistics and regulatory use, and the packing list is for operational handling and verification.