Cargo Manifest

Cargo Manifest is a core document in international cargo transportation, referring to a summary list prepared by the carrier (shipping company, airline, etc.) or its agent based on the bill of lading or waybill, listing detailed information of all goods carried. Its main usage scenarios include: declaring vessel/aircraft entry and exit to customs, handling cargo loading/unloading and handover, and serving as the data source for manifest declaration. Notes: The cargo manifest must be consistent with the bill of lading/waybill, otherwise it may lead to customs inspection or fines; format requirements differ slightly by mode of transport (sea, air), e.g., in sea freight it is often called a 'manifest', in air freight a 'cargo manifest'. Difference from bill of lading: The bill of lading is a document of title and proof of transport contract, while the cargo manifest is only a summary list of goods and has no title effect; difference from packing list: The packing list focuses on details within each package, while the cargo manifest summarizes all cargo on the entire vessel/aircraft. Foreign trade practitioners must ensure the cargo manifest is submitted timely and accurately to avoid port demurrage or customs clearance delays.