Find out the Functions, Types, and Information on Shipping Mark!

Shipping Mark, what is that mean? In the increasingly connected world of global trade, clear and accurate identification in the delivery of goods is key to ensuring that they arrive on time and in good condition. Among the various methods used to achieve this, shipping marks have become one of the most important instruments in the logistics process. By providing clear and structured information on the packaging of goods, shipping marks not only facilitate smooth delivery, but also enable efficient tracking, better inventory management, and safe handling. Check out the following article TransTRACK!

Shipping Mark Function

Shipping mark is a mark or label placed on the packaging of goods to be sent by sea or air transportation. The functions of shipping marks are as follows:

Identification

Shipping marks help in identifying the packaging and cargo being shipped. This facilitates shipping, receiving, and sorting of goods at the port or warehouse.

Destination Information

Shipping marks usually include information regarding the destination of the shipment, such as the recipient’s name and address, contract number, or other special instructions.

Protection

Shipping marks help protect goods from damage or loss by providing clear information to transport personnel on how to properly handle the packaging.

Segregation

In shipments that involve multiple recipients or destinations, shipping marks help in segregating and grouping goods according to the destination.

Communication

Shipping marks can also be used to convey important information to the recipient or delivery personnel, such as special handling instructions or warnings about hazardous materials.

As such, shipping marks are essential in the logistics and shipping process of goods internationally and domestically as they help ensure that goods are delivered appropriately, safely, and efficiently.

Types of Shipping Marks

There are several types of shipping marks that are commonly used in the process of shipping goods. Some of them include:

Shipping Label

Shipping labels are labels that are placed on the packaging of goods to provide important information such as the sender’s address, recipient’s address, shipment number, item weight, and special handling instructions. Shipping labels are usually printed and affixed to the packaging surface.

Stencil Marking

Stencil marking is the process of marking the packaging of goods using a stencil or template that is mounted on top of the packaging surface. This can be information such as container numbers, shipment numbers, or special handling symbols. Stencil marking is often used in the shipping and logistics industry to provide durable identification on packaging.

Barcodes

A barcode is a marking system that uses vertical or horizontal lines to represent specific data, such as serial numbers, shipment numbers, or other product information. Barcodes can be scanned using a barcode reader device to read and retrieve the information contained in the barcode. Barcodes are used extensively in shipping for item tracking and inventory management.

RFID Tags

RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tags are small devices that contain electronic chips and antennas that emit radio signals to transfer information. RFID tags can be placed on the packaging of goods and used to identify and track goods during shipment. The radio signals from RFID tags can be read remotely, which allows for fast and accurate data capture.

These four types of shipping marks play an important role in the modern freight forwarding process, assisting in the identification, tracking, and management of goods during their journey from sender to receiver.

Information that Should Be on Shipping Marks

Shipping marks are information placed on the packaging of goods to be shipped to aid in identification, handling, and tracking during the shipping process. Information that should typically be on a shipment shipping mark includes:

Recipient’s Name and Address: This is basic information that includes the full name and address of the consignee. This helps the delivery person to deliver the goods to the right destination.

Sender’s Name and Address

As with the recipient’s name and address, this information includes the details of the sender of the goods. This helps in terms of tracking the shipment and providing the necessary contacts in case of any problems during delivery.

Container Number or Shipping Number

A unique container number or shipping number is used to specifically identify the packaging or cargo being shipped. This information is essential in the management and tracking of goods.

Shipment Number or Container Number

A unique number assigned to identify a specific shipment or container containing goods.

Special Handling Symbols

These include special symbols or codes that give instructions to delivery personnel on how to handle the item. Examples are “Fragile” for fragile items or “This Side Up” to indicate the correct direction when handling the packaging.

Special Instructions

Shipping marks may also include special instructions given by the shipper to the shipping officer. These could be requests for special handling, storage requirements, or other information relevant for safe and proper delivery.

Product Identification Marks

In some cases, shipping marks also include information that specifically identifies the product, such as a serial number or product code. This helps in tracking and inventory management.

Hazard Labels

For items that contain hazardous materials, the shipping mark must include a hazard label that complies with international shipping regulations. This ensures safe handling and shipping for all parties involved.

Weight and Dimensions

Information on package weight and dimensions to ensure compliance with shipping and handling requirements.

Special Handling Symbols

Special symbols or instructions that indicate how to handle items, such as “Fragile” for fragile items or “This Side Up” to indicate the correct direction when handling.

Product Information

Additional information about the product being shipped, such as serial number, product code, or a brief description of the item.

Identification Marks

A unique identification mark such as a barcode or RFID tag used to track and identify goods during shipment.

Each shipment may require additional information depending on the type of goods being shipped and specific shipping requirements. By ensuring the right and complete information is on the shipping mark, shippers can ensure that the goods are shipped appropriately and safely to the desired destination.

By integrating  Transportation Management System (TMS) from TransTRACK in the use of shipping marks, companies can optimize efficiency and reliability in their supply chain. TMS not only helps in shipment management, but also enables real-time visibility of shipment status, better inventory management, and in-depth data analysis to improve overall performance.

With TransTRACK, companies can take proactive measures to improve customer satisfaction and optimize shipping costs. With features such as route optimization, real-time shipment tracking, and integration with various third parties, TMS helps improve operational efficiency and reduce the risk of delayed or damaged goods.

If you want to learn more about how TransTRACK can transform the way you manage shipments and improve your supply chain performance, contact us today for a free demo or consultation. Together, let’s take your logistics operations to the next level with the leading solution in transportation management.

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