No Marks (N/M) is a marking term for transport packaging in international trade, meaning that no shipping marks are printed on the outer packaging of goods. It is typically applicable to bulk cargo, nude cargo, low-value bulk commodities, or situations where the customer explicitly requests no marking. Usage scenarios include: container transport where goods have no packaging or simple packaging; avoiding confusion or saving costs; or when the buyer requests that no identifying information be shown. Precautions: No Marks may make it difficult to identify goods during loading, unloading, and transshipment, increasing the risk of misdelivery or loss; if a letter of credit requires shipping marks, N/M cannot be used, otherwise it constitutes a discrepancy. Compared with 'main mark' and 'side mark', N/M indicates no marks at all, while the main mark contains information such as consignee and port of destination. Unlike 'nude cargo', No Marks emphasizes the absence of marks, but there may still be simple packaging. In practice, if N/M is adopted, 'N/M' should be stated in the marks column of documents (such as bill of lading, packing list) to maintain consistency of documents.
📝 Examples
1. This batch of bulk soybeans is packed with No Marks (N/M), and the marks column on the bill of lading shows 'N/M'. Please be informed. (Note: A common practice for bulk cargo; documents must be consistent.)
2. According to the contract, no shipping marks are to be printed on the outer cartons, i.e., N/M, but a packing list must be enclosed inside the cartons. (Note: The buyer requires no marks but retains internal identification.)
💡 Foreign Trade Tips
Foreign trade terms are the foundation of international business communication
Trade practices may vary slightly by country; pay attention when using them
When using terms in contracts, specify the applicable version (e.g., Incoterms 2020)
For unfamiliar terms, use GlobalSync's multilingual email helper to confirm with your partner