Freight Abbreviations
Simplify international shipping with our logistics terms directory. Master essential abbreviations, transport codes, and Incoterms for a seamless supply chain.
FCL
Term 01Full Container Load
An ocean freight shipment where the shipper has exclusive use of an entire ocean cargo container. Best for large volume goods.
LCL
Term 02Less than Container Load
A shipment that does not fill a full container, where multiple shippers share space inside a single container (consolidation).
ODC
Term 03Over-Dimensional Cargo
Cargo that exceeds the standard dimensions of a 20ft or 40ft container, requiring special heavy-lift flat racks, open tops, or specialized transport trailers.
B/L or BoL
Term 04Bill of Lading
A legally binding document issued by a carrier to a shipper, detailing the type, quantity, and destination of the goods being carried. It acts as a receipt of shipment.
AWB
Term 05Air Waybill
A non-negotiable document issued by an air carrier that serves as a receipt of goods and an agreement of carriage between the shipper and the airline.
POL
Term 06Port of Loading
The specific harbor or port facility where cargo is loaded onto the ocean vessel or aircraft for transit.
POD
Term 07Port of Discharge
The destination port where cargo is unloaded from the vessel or aircraft for final customs clearance and delivery.
ETA
Term 08Estimated Time of Arrival
The anticipated date and time when a shipping carrier will arrive at its final destination or next port of call.
ETD
Term 09Estimated Time of Departure
The scheduled date and time when a shipping carrier leaves its point of origin.
EXW
Term 010Ex Works (Incoterm)
A trade term placing maximum responsibility on the buyer. The seller makes goods available at their premises, and the buyer handles all transit and export/import compliance.
FOB
Term 011Free On Board (Incoterm)
Seller clears the goods for export and delivers them on board the vessel. Responsibility and cost transfer to the buyer once the cargo passes the ship's rail.
CIF
Term 012Cost, Insurance, and Freight (Incoterm)
The seller pays for carriage and marine insurance to the destination port. The buyer assumes risk once the goods are on board, but doesn't pay shipping costs until arrival.
DDP
Term 013Delivered Duty Paid (Incoterm)
The seller assumes all responsibilities, risks, and costs (including shipping, duties, taxes, and clearance) to deliver the goods to the buyer's destination.
CFS
Term 014Container Freight Station
A warehouse facility where LCL cargo is consolidated (stuffed) before export, or de-consolidated (stripped) after import.
THC
Term 015Terminal Handling Charges
Fees charged by port terminal operators for the handling of containers, including vessel loading, unloading, and staging.
CHA
Term 016Customs House Agent
A licensed professional who assists importers and exporters in clearing goods through customs authorities by managing documentation and duties.