Case Number

Case Number (C/NO.) is a common term in foreign trade logistics and documentation. It refers to the sequential number on the outer packaging of goods (such as wooden cases, cartons, pallets, etc.), used to distinguish different packages within the same shipment. It is usually used together with Shipping Marks and appears on documents such as packing lists, bills of lading, and invoices, facilitating identification, counting, and verification of goods by carriers, customs, and consignees. Usage scenarios include: when bulk goods are divided into multiple packages, each package must be marked with 'C/NO. 1-10', etc.; distinguishing goods of different owners in LCL shipments; or serving as a unique tracking identifier for claims or returns. Note: The case number must be completely consistent with documents such as the packing list and bill of lading; otherwise, it may cause customs clearance delays or misdelivery of goods. If the goods are in nude or bulk packaging, there is no case number. The case number is different from the Item No. or Order No.; the former only identifies the package, while the latter two identify specific goods or transactions. It is often interchangeable with 'Carton Number', but 'Case Number' is more general and not limited to cartons.