Delivery Order (D/O)

A Delivery Order (D/O) is a document issued by the carrier or its agent to the consignee, serving as a voucher for taking delivery of goods. It instructs the warehouse or terminal to release the goods to the holder of the document. In foreign trade practice, when goods arrive at the port, the consignee typically needs to exchange the original bill of lading or telex release bill of lading for a delivery order, and then use the delivery order to pick up the goods at the designated yard or warehouse. A delivery order is not a document of title, cannot be circulated or transferred, and serves only as an instruction for delivery. Usage scenarios include: taking delivery after import customs clearance, separate delivery of LCL cargo, and delivery under letters of credit after the bank releases documents. Precautions: The delivery order must be consistent with the bill of lading information, such as consignee name, cargo description, number of packages, etc.; the delivery order usually has a validity period, and if expired, it must be reissued; if the bill of lading is a straight bill of lading, the delivery order can only be issued to the named consignee. Difference from Bill of Lading (B/L): A bill of lading is a document of title and is transferable, while a delivery order is only a document instructing delivery and is not transferable. Difference from Warehouse Receipt: A warehouse receipt proves storage of goods, while a delivery order proves the right to take delivery.