Definition
The party named to receive the goods at destination, as stated on the transport document.
The consignee is the receiver of the shipment recorded on the bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the document type, the consignee takes delivery on identification (waybill or straight B/L) or against surrender of an original negotiable B/L.
The consignee is often, but not always, the buyer and the importer of record. Naming the consignee correctly matters for cargo release, customs entry, and any transfer of title where a negotiable bill of lading is used.
Related terms
Shipper
The party that tenders the goods for shipment, named as consignor on the transport document.
Notify Party
The party the carrier or forwarder notifies when the shipment arrives, often the consignee or its agent.
Bill of Lading (B/L)
The carrier’s document that acts as a receipt for cargo, a contract of carriage, and a document of title.
Delivery Order (D/O)
An instruction authorizing the terminal or warehouse to release cargo to the named party.
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