In modern logistics, the success of cargo delivery depends on the coordinated interaction of various participants in the process. One of the key players in the logistics chain is the shipper. Let's take a closer look at who they are and what role they play in the process of moving goods.

Who is a consignor?

A consignor is a legal entity or individual who transfers the goods to the carrier for delivery to the recipient. This is the initiator of the delivery. In fact, it is the owner of the goods or a person authorized to act on his behalf who initiates the transportation process. But, depending on its role in the supply chain, the shipper can be a product manufacturer, supplier, retailer, distributor, individual, or exporter when the goods are transported abroad.

Essentially, anyone who enters into a contract for the transportation of goods is a shipper. It is important to note that the shipper usually retains ownership of the goods until the consignee pays for them in full.

Main responsibilities of the consignor

The role of a shipper is not limited to the transfer of goods. He has a number of responsibilities that ensure successful and safe transportation:

1. Preparing the cargo for transportation. The shipper properly packs the goods, taking into account their characteristics, and marks the cargo in accordance with the regulations. Combines small goods into larger cargo units (palletization). 

2. The shipper is responsible for preparing and providing the necessary transportation documents (waybills, shipping documents, customs declarations for international transportation, quality certificates, and other special documents).

3. Ensures safety. Provides reliable information about the characteristics of the cargo, complies with the rules for the transportation of dangerous goods. He does his best to reduce risks, delays, or any other problems, and purchases delivery insurance. 

4. Ensures coordination with all participants in the logistics chain. Communicates with the carrier about the terms and conditions of transportation. Informs the recipient of the shipment details and provides tracking information.

Consignor in the logistics chain

In the structure of the logistics chain, the shipper occupies the initial position. It is the shipper who starts the process of moving goods to the final consignee. The logistics chain can be much more complicated, especially in international transportation or when warehouses, customs terminals, and other intermediate links are involved.

Good cooperation with the shipper provides a number of benefits for the entire logistics chain:

• Reduced delays in shipment

• Reducing the risk of damage to goods during transportation

• Optimization of transportation costs due to proper paperwork

• Increasing the efficiency of the entire logistics process.

Consignor's responsibility

One of the key aspects of the shipper's role is its legal responsibility. According to transportation law, the shipper is responsible for:

• choosing a carrier;

• preparation of accurate transportation documents;

• accuracy of information about the cargo;

• quality of packaging and compliance with labeling;

• timely delivery of the cargo to the carrier;

• compensation for losses caused by failure to fulfill its obligations;

• payment of penalties for transportation downtime if it is caused by the shipper's fault.

In global trade, the shipper is also considered a registered exporter. He is legally responsible for the goods when they leave the country of origin.

How CONSOLID helps shippers

The CONSOLID digital platform allows shippers to significantly simplify the processes of interaction with other participants in the supply chain:

1. Automated processing of documents for transportation

2. Easy search for carriers for different types of cargo

3. Optimization of routes and the ability to track cargo in real time

4. Consolidation of cargo to reduce transportation costs

5. Sale of free space in transport to increase resource efficiency

Conclusion

The shipper plays a fundamental role in the logistics chain, actually initiating the process of moving goods from the producer to the consumer. The efficiency of its work directly affects the quality, speed, and cost of the entire logistics process.

In today's rapidly developing digital environment, the use of specialized platforms such as CONSOLID allows shippers to significantly optimize their processes, increase efficiency and reduce logistics costs.