Order Shipping

Order Shipping is a core operational term in international trade, referring to the process by which the seller, in accordance with the contract or order, delivers the goods to the carrier and completes a series of actions including export customs declaration and loading onto the vessel (or truck or aircraft). It is not merely the physical movement of goods but also involves documentation preparation, transportation arrangements, insurance, and the transfer of risk under trade terms such as FOB and CIF. Usage scenarios include: the seller notifying the buyer of the shipping date after completing production, booking space with a freight forwarder, and obtaining the bill of lading. Points to note: shipping must strictly comply with the shipment period, port of shipment, and port of destination specified in the letter of credit or contract, otherwise it may constitute a breach of contract; also, a distinction must be made between 'shipment' and 'delivery'—under FOB, shipment completes delivery, whereas under DDP, shipment is only one step before delivery. Unlike 'Dispatch,' Order Shipping emphasizes the initiation of the entire transportation process, not merely the departure of goods from the warehouse. Foreign trade practitioners should ensure that shipping documents (such as the bill of lading, packing list, and invoice) are accurate and consistent to avoid refusal of payment due to discrepancies.