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Shipping instructions
Shipping instructions are critical in any transport operation, and even more so in the international movement of humanitarian goods. Shipping instructions must be created per destination and updated regularly to show the most up-to-date information.
It is the responsibility of the logistics manager in the country of destination to ensure the shipping instructions are up to date.
Typically, shipping instructions must provide the below details:
- consignment delivery address and contact details at delivery place
- appointed freight forwarder/customs agent contact details (“notify party”)
- delivery requirements: warehouse opening hours, requirements of pallets or labels, availability (or not) of mechanical handling equipment
- document delivery address and contact details (“consignee”)
- documents needed to accompany the shipment
- in the Red Cross Movement, shipping instructions will also contain information and contact details of the regional hub overseeing the shipment of the goods.
Shipping instructions can be shared by and to anyone along the supply chain.
From: consignee
To: shipper
Where the shipper is the seller of the goods or the transporter
From: shipper
To: transporter
Where the shipper is arranging for transportation of the goods
From: consignee
To: freight forwarder/customs agent
Where the agent is in charge of delivery from entry point to final destination, per shipping instructions
Read the next section on Special considerations here.
Related resources
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