Clean Manifest

Clean Manifest refers to a manifest issued by the carrier or its agent at the port of loading that bears no remarks indicating defects in the packing or apparent condition of the goods. It is commonly used in sea or air transport to show that the goods have been shipped in the quantity and condition as stated in the bill of lading, and that the carrier has raised no objection regarding packing, number of packages, etc. Use cases include letter of credit settlement, insurance claims, and cargo collection at the destination port. Note: A clean manifest is not the same as a clean bill of lading; the former is a manifest (cargo list), while the latter is a bill of lading. If there is short shipment, damage, or poor packing, the carrier will remark on the manifest, making it an 'unclean manifest,' which may affect settlement. Difference from 'clean bill of lading': A clean bill of lading is a document of title issued by the carrier to the shipper, whereas a clean manifest is a ship's cargo list mainly used for customs and port operations. Foreign trade practitioners should ensure the manifest is clean to avoid bank refusal or claims by the consignee.