Shipping products might seem simple to someone who has never dealt with it. And it is simple, once you learn all about this process and shipping terminology. To prove this, we have decided to write the most important things about shipping and its terminology. Therefore, if you are interested in learning more about this process, make sure to keep reading!
The importance of understanding shipping terms
When it comes to shipping terminology, the first thing you will want to learn about it is that there are different types of shipments. This is something you will have to learn before hiring freight forwarding companies in Bahrain. Depending on the size of your shipment, it may be considered as a full truckload (FTL), less-than-load (LDL) shipment, or a parcel. The size of your shipment is a very important factor because it may be too small or too big for some carriers.
Here is another thing you will need to consider before shipping your goods. Based on the size of your shipment, you will have to decide which mode of transport will suit you and your needs the most. For example, if you want to ship your goods from Saudi Arabia to Canada, sea cargo from Saudi Arabia to Canada will probably be a better option than transporting your goods via air.
The wide variety of shipping terms might confuse you at first. However, they are there for a reason. Understanding them is what will ensure that your goods will be shipped on time, at the right destination, and with no problems along the way. This is exactly why we have prepared the list of the most important shipping terms you will have to learn. Make sure to read them carefully!
The ultimate glossary of shipping terminology
Automated Export System (or AES) – a system that is being used by the US Government to collect all data on exports.
Arrival notice – time when the shipment will arrive at the desired location.
Baloon freight – a freight that is light, but bulky.
Bill of landing – a binding contract. It serves as a receipt for the goods that you will deliver to the carrier.
Cargo – any good that is being transported via air, sea, or rail.
Cash on delivery – or COD. Paying for shipment upon delivery, rather than ahead of time.
Dangerous goods – items that are corrosive, flammable, toxic, explosive, etc.
DOT – the US agency that controls transportation in the US.
Embargo – a government order that restricts the shipping of an item.
Export – shipping items out of the country.
Freight forwarder – a company that is responsible for arranging the transportation of goods.
Import – opposite of export.
Logistics – the management of the entire process of shipment.
Overage – when the number of received items is greater than it is stated in the documentation.
Payment terms – terms that describe the way it will be paid in a transaction.
Relay – transferring containers from one ship to the other (when both ships own the same carrier).
Shortage – opposite of overage.
Terminal – a location where shipping containers will be picked up, maintained, or dropped off.
Unclaimed freight – freight that wasn’t claimed or picked up by anyone.
Vessel – a boat or a ship.
Vessel traffic service – a system that uses authorities to monitor boats and ships.
There you have it! These are the most important shipping terms you need to master. In case you need any help, we, at Four Winds Saudi Arabia, will gladly answer all your questions. Feel free to contact us at any time!
