Loading Port
The loading port is the port where the cargo is loaded onto the exporting vessel. This port must be reported on the Shipper’s Export Declaration, Schedule D. Schedule D is used by U.S. companies when exporting to determine which tariff is used to freight rate the cargo for carriers with more than one tariff. The loading port is also sometimes called the “port of lading.”
In order to avoid delays and other problems, it is important that the loading port be correctly identified on all shipping documents. If the loading port is not correctly identified, the cargo may be delayed or even rejected by the receiving port.
There are a few different ways to identify a loading port on shipping documents:
- The most common method is to use the International Port Code (IPC), which is a four-letter code assigned by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to every seaport in the world.
- Another method is to use the United Nations Location Code (UNLOCODE), which is a six-letter code assigned by the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) to every seaport and inland waterway location in the world.
It is also possible to identify a loading port by its latitude and longitude coordinates, or by using a named location such as “New York, NY” or “Los Angeles, CA.” However, it is generally best to use either the IPC or UNLOCODE code when identifying a loading port, as this will help to ensure that the cargo arrives at the correct destination.
Related Links
Logistics dictionary – SUPERTRANSPORT
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