The marks and numbers of a shipment are analogous to the identification (ID) card of a person. They identify the cargo the same way an ID card identifies a person. The exporter, customs, carriers, and importer rely on them to distinguish one consignment from another.

The purpose of the marks and numbers is to identify the cargo, not the consignee, and they must be easily identifiable. Any old markings (when using a second-hand package or packing material) or irrelevant information on the master pack may interfere with its identification.

The marks and numbers on the master export packs must be consistent with the marks and numbers on the shipping documents.

An example of the marks and numbers for the sample letter of credit (including the item number and packing data of the product Pneumatic Tools) is presented in the Diagram: Shipping Marks below.

Front Marks

The lead mark can be enclosed in any shape (triangle, diamond, etc.) or without enclosure, unless otherwise specified by the buyer.

The "D.I." in the lead mark is the acronym of DEF Imports. For security reasons---to avoid being the target of pilferage---avoid using the full company name as it is too conspicuous. Better yet, use letters or numbers that are unrelated to the company name, such as the purchase order (P.O.) number. Buyers such as chain stores, may want their P.O. number and department or store number to appear in the shipping marks.

The "Sunny Port" is the port of destination. In some cases the name of the country may be added after the port or point of destination, particularly in the transhipment to a landlocked country.

In case of transhipment to a landlocked country, put "VIA {+ the named transhipping point}" below the point of final destination. For example if the cargo is destined for Zurich, Switzerland, and the transhipping point is Rotterdam, Netherlands, put "VIA ROTTERDAM, NETHERLANDS" below the point of final destination which is "ZURICH, SWITZERLAND".

The carton number can be in a running number, for example "C/NO. 1/50" or "C/NO. 1 OF 50" identifies the carton number 1 from a total of 50 cartons.

Side Marks

In certain countries, direct naming of the content (e.g. PNEUMATIC TOOLS) of a master export pack may make the product an easy target for pilferage.

The ITEM NO. (item number) is very important in identifying the content in a 'coded' manner and it is being used in the warehouse management at destinations.

The N.W. (net weight), G.W. (gross weight) and MEAS. (measurement) may contain both the metric (kgs., CBM and cms.) and the Imperial (lbs., cu. ft. and inches) units of measurement. The carrier uses the gross weight or the measurement in calculating the freight rate.

Handling Marks

The handling marks give clear instructions regarding the handling of the goods. Please see Cautionary Markings---Pictorial Cargo Handling Marks that are recognized in international trade.

In some cases it may be necessary to put the cautionary markings in the importer's language. Please see the sample markings in foreign languages.