Generic Shipping Terms
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
A
Assessorial Charges – These are components of freight costs that the freight carriers have added on to their base freight rates in recent years. Examples of these charges include:
- Freight Surcharge
- Dimensional Surcharge
- Delivery to Residence
- Address Corrections
- Weight Errors
- Insurance
B
Base Shipping Rate (also referred to as Base Rate) – The base freight expenses that apply to an individual shipment.
Bill of Lading – A document that must accompany each shipment that defines the contents of the shipment.
Business Rules – The internal business rules that have been defined by each company that determine freight carriers and shipping modes. These rules have a direct impact on freight expenses.
C
Carrier Agreement – The written agreement with a specific freight carrier that determines the prices and discounts, by shipping mode and service level, that apply for the term of the agreement. Most agreements are in effect for 1, 2 or 3 years.
Claim – A dispute on the freight expense incurred on an individual shipment, or a request for reimbursement for products damaged during the shipping process.
Consignee – A company that receives an individual shipment and acknowledges the receipt in writing.
D
E
F
FOB/Prepaid – The identification of which party is responsible for paying the freight expense. FOB refers to “Freight on Board” and indicates that the purchaser of the products is responsible for paying the freight expense, and Prepaid indicates that the supplier is responsible for paying for the freight expenses.
Freight Audit – The process of reviewing the current procedures for managing both inbound freight expenses and outbound freight expenses.
Freight Broker – A company that serves as a sales agent for a freight carrier.
Freight Carrier (also referred to as Carrier) – A company that provides any type of shipping service.
Freight Forwarder – A company that arranges for products to be shipped by international freight carriers, and picks up or delivers the product from either the company shipping the products, or from the company receiving the products.
Freight Invoice Approval – The process of approving invoices received from Freight Carriers.
Freight Policy – The internal policy defined by an individual company that defines when specific shipping modes, specific freight carriers, and specific service levels should be utilized. It can also define what personnel has the authority to make decisions that impact freight expenses.
Freight Spend – The total amount of expenses incurred for freight in a given time period, typically a year.
G
H
I
Imports – products that are purchased internationally.
Inbound Freight – The freight expense that is incurred on products purchased from vendors, typically related to incoming purchase orders.
J
K
L
M
N
O
Outbound Freight – The freight expense that is incurred on products shipped to a customer, typically related to outbound customer orders.
P
Packing List – A document that accompanies each shipment and contains the contents of each shipment.
Q
R
Returns – Shipments that are returned to the supplier.
S
Service Levels – The level of service options that are available for each shipping mode. As an example, the options that are typically available for parcel shipments are next day, second day, ground, etc. These options can vary by Freight Carrier.
Ship Via – The individual Freight Carrier to be used on an individual shipment.
Shipper – The Freight Carrier used on an individual shipment.
Shipping and Handling Charge – The amount on an individual invoice that identifies the freight expense, provided by a freight carrier, plus an allowance for the internal handling expenses.
Shipping Charge – The amount on an individual invoice that identifies the amount of freight expense, provided by a freight carrier, that is to be paid by the company receiving the products.
Shipping Charge Correction – A charge that appears on the freight carrier’s invoice, received after the actual shipment occurs, that identifies a correction to the amount of the freight expense.
Shipping Container – The package or container that products are typically shipped in.
Shipping Label – The bar coded label that must used on each shipping container.
Shipping Modes – These are the modes of shipping that most companies use for shipping their products. Common modes used include:
- Small Parcel – the mode used to ship products shipped in individual packages.
- Truck Load – the mode used to ship products in full truck loads.
- LTL – the mode used to ship products in less than full trucks loads, typically in pallets. what is FAK?
- International Export – the mode used to ship products internationally.
- International Import – the mode used to purchase products internationally.
- Trade Shows – the mode used to ship displays and sales materials to trade shows.
- US Mail – the mode used to ship via the US post office.
- Air – the mode used to ship via airplane.
- Rail – the mode used to ship via the railroad.
Shipping Routing (also referred to as Routing) – The specific route determined by the freight carrier for the shipment of an individual shipment.
Shipping System – The computer system used to facilitate the shipping process. Typical functions performed are generation of bar coded shipping labels, generation of bills of lading, freight carrier selection, and freight cost calculation. They can also generate the required customs paperwork required for international shipments. These systems can be purchased from either individual freight carriers, if the company uses a single freight carrier for shipping their products, or from third party suppliers, if a company uses multiple freight carriers for shipping their products. These computer systems are separate systems from the company’s ERP systems, and may or may not be electronically interfaced with the ERP system.
Shipping Zones – Predetermined sections of the US that are determined and used by individual freight carriers to calculate freight expenses.
Strategic Sourcing Initiative – The process of documenting a company’s total shipping requirements and soliciting formal quotations from the applicable freight carriers.
T
Tracking Number – A unique number assigned by a freight carrier to an individual shipment that allows the end consumer to inquire about the status of the shipment anytime during the shipping process.
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
LTL Terms
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
A
Accessorial Charges (also called "Assessorial Charges") – Charges made for performing services beyond normal pickup and delivery such as inside delivery or storage charges.
Air Freight Forwarder – An air freight forwarder provides pickup and delivery service under its own tariff, consolidates shipments into larger units, prepares shipping documentation, and tenders shipments to the airlines. Air freight forwarders do not generally operate their own aircraft and may therefore be called "indirect air carriers." Because the air freight forwarder tenders the shipment, the airlines consider the forwarder to be the shipper.
Air Waybill – An air waybill is a shipping document used by the airlines. Similar to a bill of lading, the air waybill is a contract between the shipper and airline that states the terms and conditions of transportation. The air waybill also contains shipping instructions, a description of the commodity, and transportation charges.
Articles of Extraordinary Value – Carriers are not liable for "documents, coin money, or articles of extraordinary value" unless the items are specifically rated in published classifications or tariffs. Exceptions may be made by special agreement. If an agreement is made, the stipulated value of the articles must be endorsed on the bill of lading. Articles may include precious stones, jewels, and currency. Many tariffs include restrictions on commodities with values in excess of a specified amount.
B
Bill of Lading (B/L) – A bill of lading is a binding contract that serves three main purposes: (1) a receipt for the goods delivered to the carrier for shipment; (2) a definition or description of the goods; and (3) evidence of title to the relative goods, if "negotiable".
Bill of Lading Exceptions – The terms and conditions of most bills of lading release carriers from liability for loss or damage arising from: (1) an Act of God, (2) the public enemy, (3) the authority of law, or (4) the act or default of the shipper. In addition, except in the case of negligence, a carrier will not be liable for loss, damage, or delay caused by: (1) the property being stopped and held in transit upon the request of the shipper, owner, or party entitled to make such request, (2) lack of capacity of a highway, bridge or ferry, (3) a defect or vice in the property, or (4) riots or strikes.
Bonded Carrier – A carrier licensed by US Customs to carry Customs-controlled merchandise between Customs points.
Breakbulk – To separate parts of a load into individual shipments for routing to different destinations.
Breakbulk Terminal – Consolidation and distribution center. A facility in the system that unloads and consolidates shipments received from both its smaller terminals and from other breakbulks. This facility may have its own city operation.
Broker – A broker is an independent contractor paid to arrange motor carrier transportation. A broker may work on behalf of a carrier or shipper.
C
Carmack – An industry term regarding loss or damage of cargo. Carmack is governed by 49 U.S.C 14706, which states that a motor carrier must (1) issue the Bill of Lading and (2) pay the actual loss or injury to the property. However, carriers do limit their liability for release value commodities, and can limit their damages to $25.00 per pound or $100,000 per shipment.
Cartage Agent – A carrier who performs pickup or delivery in areas that the primary carrierr does not service.
- Cartage agents use their own paper work while transporting the shipment.
- Usually the primary carrier does not track the shipment while it is in the cartage agent’s possession.
- When the primary carrier gives a shipment to a cartage agent for delivery, the shipment is considered to be "delivered" in some of primary carriers’ tracking tools.
Claim (Cargo Claim) – A Cargo Claim is a demand made upon a transportation company for payment, due to freight loss or damage alleged to have occurred while shipment was in the possession of carrier. Pursuant to the National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) Uniform Bill of Lading, all cargo claims must be filed within 9 months.
Claim (Overcharge/Undercharge Claim) – Overcharge or Undercharge Claims are demands upon a transportation company for the refund of an overcharge from the erroneous application of rates, weights, and assessment of freight charges.
COD – A shipment for which the carrier is responsible for collecting the sale price of the goods shipped prior to delivery.
Commodity – Any article of commerce. Goods shipped.
Common Carrier – Company that provides transportation services to the public in return for compensation.
Concealed Loss – Shortage or damage not evident at delivery.
Consignee – The person or place where a shipment will be transferred for the last time (destination); the individual or organization to whom the freight is addressed.
D
Deck Trailers – Trailers with rows of tracking on each sidewall and deck load bars. The load bars fit into the tracks to form temporary "decks" on which freight can be loaded. Decks allow more freight to be loaded in the trailer, reduce damage, and speed loading and unloading.
Delivery Receipt – Document dated and signed by consignee or its agent at the time of delivery stating the condition of the goods at delivery. The signed delivery receipt is returned to the driver for retention at the terminal. The customer retains the remaining copy.
Dispatch – The act of sending a driver on his/her assigned route with instructions and required shipping papers. Contact is maintained with the driver throughout the day via phone, pager, radio, satellite communication, or cellular phone.
Dock – A platform, generally the same height as the trailer floor, where trucks are loaded and unloaded.
Dolly (Jifflox) – Converter that provides an extra axle and fifth wheel and is used to connect multiple trailers.
Doubles – Vehicle configuration in which a tractor pulls two trailers connected by a dolly or jifflox.
Drayage – Also known as connecting road haulage.
- The hauling of a load by a cart with detachable sides (dray).
- Road transportation between the nearest railway terminal and the stuffing place.
E
Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) – The electronic transmission of routine business documents, such as purchase orders, invoices, and bills of lading, between computers in a standard format. The data formats, or transaction sets, are usually sent between mainframe computers.
Exceptions – An exception is any delivery in which the receiver or driver notes a problem on the delivery receipt before signing it. Typically, exceptions concern shortages and damages.
Exclusive Use – Shipper pays a premium rate for the sole use of the trailer. The trailer will be sealed at loading and the seal number is recorded on the manifest. The seal number is verified before the trailer is unloaded at destination. When a shipper requests an exclusive use trailer, no other freight may be added to the unit even if space permits.
Exempt Commodity – Commodities that are exempt from federal regulation, such as agricultural and forestry products.
F
Free Along Side (F.A.S.) – A basis of pricing meaning the price of goods alongside a transport vessel at a specified location. The buyer is responsible for loading the goods onto the transport vessel and paying all the cost of shipping beyond that location.
Free On Board (F.O.B.) – An acronym for free on board when used in a sales contract. The seller agrees to deliver merchandise, free of all transportation expense, to the place specified by the contract. Once delivery is complete, the title to all the goods and the risk of damage become the buyer’s.
F.O.B Origin – F.O.B. Origin means that title and risk pass to the buyer at the moment of the seller’s delivery to the carrier. The parties may agree to have title and risk pass at a different time or to allocate freight charges by a written agreement.
F.O.B. Destination – F.O.B. Destination changes the location where title and risk pass. Under this arrangement, title and risk remain with the seller until they have delivered the freight to the delivery location specified in the contract.
Freight – Any commodity being transported.
Freight Bill – Shipping document to confirm delivery of the freight and indicate the terms of payment (prepaid or collect). Gives a description of the freight, its weight, amount of charges, taxes, and whether the bill is collect or prepaid. If bill is prepaid, freight charges are paid by shipper. If bill is collect, freight charges are paid by the receiver of the goods.
Freight Broker – Any person who sells transportation without actually providing it. The term usually refers to an agent for TL shipments, matching small shippers with carriers. Freight brokers often do not accept any responsibility for their shipments. (Also see Freight Forwarder and Shipper’s Agent.)
Freight Forwarder – A freight forwarder combines less-than-truckload (LTL) or less-than-carload (LCL) shipments into truckload or carload lots. Freight forwarders are designated as common carriers. They also issue bills of lading and accept responsibility for cargo. The term may also refer to the company that fills railroad trains with trailers. (Also see Freight Forwarder and Shipper’s Agent.)
G
Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) – The combined weight of the vehicle (tractor and trailers) and its cargo.
H
Hazardous Material – Hazardous materials are defined by the US Department of Transportation in accordance with the Federal Hazardous Material Law. A substance or material may be designated as hazardous if the transportation of the material in a particular amount and form poses an unreasonable risk to health and safety or property.
Hazardous material may include: an explosive, radioactive material, etiologic agent, flammable or combustible liquid or solid, poison, oxidizing or corrosive material, and compressed gas. For more general information, go to the U.S. DOT website at http://hazmat.dot.gov.
I
In Bond – Shipments move under bond from point of entry to an interior US destination for clearance or to another border location for clearance.
Intermodal (also called Multimodal) – Shipment moves by more than one mode of transportation (ground, air, rail, ocean).
J
Jifflox (also called Dolly) – Converter that provides an extra axle and fifth wheel and is used to connect multiple trailers.
K
L
Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) – Freight, typically less than 10,000 pounds, from several shippers loaded onto one trailer.
Linehaul – Movement of freight between cities or between facilities, especially origin terminal and destination terminal (excluding pickup and delivery service).
M
Minimum Charge – The lowest charge for which a shipment will be handled after discount and/or adjustment.
Multimodal Transportation (also called Intermodal) – Freight movement involving more than one mode of transportation (ground, air, rail, ocean).
N
National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) – Industry standard tariff published by motor carriers containing rules, descriptions, and rating on all commodities moving in commerce; used to classify freight for the purpose of rating the freight bill. More information about freight classes and the NMFC can be found at www.nmfta.org.
Non-Vessel Operating Common Carriers (NVOCC) – A type of ocean freight forwarder. NVOCCs book space in large quantities for a reduced rate, then sell space to shippers in lesser amounts. NVOCCs consolidate smaller shipments into a container load that ships under one bill of lading.
O
Order Notify (also called Negotiable Bill of Lading) – A shipment requiring the consignee to surrender the original endorsed bill of lading at the time of delivery. This is a method for the shipper to use to guarantee payment for goods shipped. More commonly used with truckload shipments.
Origin – Location at which the shipment first enters the system.
Overage – Number of units received is in excess of the quantity shown on shipping documents. Overages should not be delivered to a customer. They’re returned to the terminal unless more info is received while the driver is out.
Overcharge Claims – The payor of the freight charges files an overcharge claim to dispute a discrepancy in charges that can stem from overpayment, weight or description corrections, etc.
P
Payment Terms – Generally, the shipper is responsible for payment of prepaid shipments and the consignee is responsible on collect shipments unless a third party is indicated as payor on the shipping papers.
PRO – An acronym for "progressive rotating order"; it is a ten-digit number assigned to each shipment and serves as a tracking number and a YRC invoice number.
Pickup & Delivery (P&D) – Local movement of freight between the shipper (or pickup point) and the origin terminal or between the destination terminal and the consignee (or delivery point).
Q
R
Revenue – Freight charges received by carrier for transportation of freight.
S
Service Center – A facility.
Shipper’s Agent – A Shipper’s Agent is not a carrier, freight forwarder, or broker. Shipper’s agents generally arrange for the transportation of truckload or container load shipments. Shipper’s agents commonly provide services related to warehousing or loading and unloading. (See also "Freight Forwarder" and "Broker")
Shipping Documents – Papers accompanying a shipment as it moves through the system, including bills of lading (PDF), packing slips (PDF), customs paperwork, manifests and shipment bills.
Shortage – The number of units received is less than quantity shown on shipping documents. The outstanding shipment may be delivered later.
T
Tariff – A Tariff is a document setting forth applicable rules, rates, and charges for the movement of goods. A tariff sets forth a contract of carriage for the shipper, the consignee, and the carrier. Since January 1, 1996, motor carriers are not required to "publish" tariffs. However, in accordance with federal law, tariffs must be provided to a shipper upon request.
Third-Party – Third-party other than the shipper or consignee that is ultimately responsible for paying the shipment charges.
Truckload (TL) – Large-volume shipment from a single customer that weighs over 10,000 pounds or takes up the trailer space so no other shipment can be loaded.
Truck Tonnage – The weight (in tons) of shipment transported by truck.
U
UN Number – An internationally accepted 4-digit number used to identify hazardous material.
V
W
Waybill – A Waybill is a non-negotiable document prepared by or on behalf of the carrier at the point of shipment origin. The document shows point of origin, destination, route, consignor, consignee, description of shipment, and amount charged for the transport service.
X
Y
Z
UPS Terms
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
1 UPS Pickup Attempt – Allows the original shipper to request one pickup attempt for the return of a UPS-compatible package. It is available through our WorldShip service, or through an UPS OnLine Compatible shipping system.
3 UPS Pickup Attempts – Allows the customer to request three pickup attempts for the return of a UPS-compatible package. It is available through UPS OnLine WorldShip or a UPS OnLine Compatible shipping system.
49 CFR – Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) contains the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) for shipping materials of a hazardous nature.
A
Access Key – A special code that must accompany every request sent to the UPS OnLine® Tools server. If the Access Key is valid for the requested OnLine Tool, and your User ID/Password is correct, the requested service will be processed.
Accessorial Charge – An extra charge, such as a destination charge or a fee for handling hazardous materials, that may apply to certain shipments. Also referred to as value-added service charges, these are extra services you can add to your shipping selection to meet a complete range of shipping needs. All value-added services are not available in all locations.
Address Correction – If UPS is unable to deliver any package as addressed by the shipper, or if the package has an incorrect or incomplete address, UPS will determine and make reasonable efforts, to be determined in its sole discretion, to secure the correct or complete address. An address validated by UPS may be incorrect or incomplete for purposes of completing delivery and may be corrected by UPS. If the correct or complete address is secured, UPS, at its sole discretion, will attempt delivery, the shipper will be provided with the correct or complete address, and an additional charge will be assessed.
AESDirect – The US Census Bureau’s free, Internet-based system for filing Shipper’s Export Declaration (SED) information to the US Customs and Border Protection’s Automated Export System (AES). The electronic alternative to filing a paper SED, AESDirect can be used by US Principal Parties in Interest (USPPIs), forwarders, or anyone else responsible for export reporting.
AES Transaction Number – An Automated Export System (AES) Transaction Number uniquely identifies an export shipment. Generated by AES Direct, this number combines the Exporter Identification Number (EIN) and the Export Reference Number (ERN).
Air Shipping Document – The Air Shipping Document (ASD) is a three-part form used to ship air packages. The ASD contains your address label, tracking label, and shipping record. It allows you to choose between several payment options, including a bank check, major credit card or a UPS-issued billing information number. A red ASD is used for UPS Next Day Air shipments and UPS Worldwide Express shipments. A blue ASD is used for UPS 2nd Day Air shipments.
Air Waybill: A required shipping document that provides shipment details including destination, shipper, and type of delivery service and is part of the shipping contract.
Authorized Return Service – Authorized Return Service (ARS) provides for the easy return of UPS-compatible packages. Preprinted return labels are provided to the shipper by UPS. Simply include the label with an outbound shipment or distribute separately to customers.
Automated Export System – The Automated Export System (AES) allows you to file your Shipper’s Export Declaration (SED) information electronically with U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
B
Backhaul – The return trip of a transportation asset. The key to improving backhaul expenses is to fill the truck with the same amount of inventory on its return trip as it had on the original trip.
C
Calculate Time and Cost – A Web-based application that allows you to compare shipping charges and delivery times for domestic and international UPS services.
Certificate of Origin – A document required for a package to clear customs in some countries. Some nations restrict imports from certain countries. Many countries limit the quantity of goods that are allowed to be imported, or give preference to goods manufactured in the United States. Contact your Customer Service Center to determine if your shipment requires a Certificate of Origin.
Check to Shipper Value – Freight Check to Shipper service is similar to package Collect On Delivery (C.O.D) service.
The Check to Shipper Value is the amount UPS will collect from the recipient and send to the shipper upon shipment delivery. Additional charges apply.
The Check to Shipper Value cannot exceed the Declared Value.
Claim – A written request by a shipper to be compensated for loss or damage to a package transported via UPS. For specific filing requirements, refer to the UPS Tariff Items 505, 510 and 520 (U.S.) and outside the U.S. refer to your country’s UPS Terms and Conditions of Service and the UPS Rate and Service Guide.
Commercial Invoice – A document supplied by the shipper that provides information about the shipment, including a description of the goods, the value of the goods, and shipper information. A commercial invoice is a part of export and import documentation and may be used by customs authorities to assess applicable taxes and duties.
Commercial Value – A monetary assessment of fabricated goods used to determine duty on international shipments. This assessment takes into consideration factors including manufacturing costs, packaging, shipping, overhead, and profit margin.
Cost Code – A billing reference number used to identify a UPS CampusShipTM user’s specific cost center account.
D
Day-definite Delivery – A guarantee to deliver a package sent via UPS Air or Ground service by a certain date. Refer to the UPS Service Guarantee in the UPS Terms and Conditions for details. The applicability of this term, or the availability of the referenced service, may vary according to the country of origin and country of destination.
Debit EFT – Also known as Electronic Funds Transfer, this free service allows UPS to electronically debit UPS bill payments from your bank account on a weekly basis.
Declarations – See Export Declarations.
Declared Value – The amount in U.S. dollars for which a U.S.-origin domestic package or international shipment is protected against loss or damage. UPS automatically protects each domestic package and international shipment against loss or damage up to a value of US$100 (or the equivalent in local currency) without a declaration of value. Shippers may declare a value for amounts in excess of US$100 by showing a value in excess of $100 in the declared value field of the UPS source document, or the UPS shipping system used, and paying an additional charge. The applicability of this term, or the availability of the referenced service, may vary according to the country of origin and country of destination. For non-U.S.-origin shipment protection, please refer to the Terms and Conditions of the origin country.
Delivered Duty Paid – In this situation, the shipper pays both shipping charges and duty taxes on international shipments.
Delivery Confirmation – A delivery confirmation service in which a tag attached to a shipment is signed by the recipient and returned to the shipper.
Detail ID – A Detail ID is used by Landed Cost and Import Compliance to help refine and improve the accuracy of the TradeAbilityTM service results. The Detail ID provides expanded information to TradeAbility beyond the tariff codes identified in the Harmonized System. A Detail ID should not be reported on official shipping documents as part of the tariff code.
Developer’s Key – Once you are licensed to use UPS OnLine Tools, you will be given a Developer’s Key. This special key code will allow access to documentation for and about the tools.
Drop Ship – A shipment pursuant to a written agreement between UPS and a specific shipper that permits the shipper to tender quantities of individual packages directly to UPS at a pre-approved designated location. A unique Drop Shipper account number will be assigned, which the shipper uses solely for the origin and destination locations specified in the Drop Ship Letter of Understanding.
Duty Drawbacks – An import and export incentive provided by customs agencies in which a portion of the duty tax is refunded.
E
Electronic Return Label – A printable return label that can be generated and e-mailed to your customers using UPS OnLine WorldShip. UPS OnLine Worldship is a Web-based shipping and tracking application that allows you to manage all of your shipping activities right from your desktop computer.
Exception – An exception occurs when a package or shipment encounters an unforeseen event, which could result in a change to the expected delivery day.
Export Control Classification Number – Identifies controlled items that appear on the Commerce Control List. When commodities are exported from the United States, each item must be classified to determine if an export license is required from any U.S. Government agency. The Commerce Control List is composed of any items which are designated as controlled.
Export Declarations – A list of items you are shipping internationally. Created for customs, this information is contained on the forms for export prepared before shipment commences.
Export Documents – All documentation that must be completed for an international shipment, including the invoice, the Shipper’s Export Declaration, export license, etc., as required by customs in the importing and exporting countries.
Export License – A document issued by the government of the shipper’s export country which permits the licensee to participate in the export of designated goods to certain destinations. The Export License must accompany the Application for Import Permit.
Export Shipment Control Sticker – The Export Shipment Control Sticker (ESC) is placed on all export packages to Canada (ground) and Puerto Rico except UPS Next Day Air Letters. These stickers identify multiple-package shipments for consolidation. The weight of each package and the number of the packages in the shipment are recorded.
Extended Area Surcharge – A charge applied for delivery to or collection from an area that falls outside of the normal UPS service area (international services only).
F
Forwarding Agent – The person in the United States who is authorized by a principal party in interest to perform the services required to facilitate the export of items from the United States. This may include air couriers or carriers.
G
Girth – Girth is defined as the width (rounded to the nearest inch) times two, plus the height (rounded to the nearest inch) times two, measured perpendicular to the length of an item.
H
Hundredweight Shipping Document – The Hundredweight Shipping Document (HSD) is required paperwork for shipping multiple package shipments totaling 200 pounds or more going to a single recipient when not using a shipping system like WorldShip or CampusShip.
I
Inbound and Delivery Notification – The most complete service offered through Quantum ViewTM Data, Inbound and Delivery Notification provides complete manifest information and closed-loop proof for shipments you receive, including:
- Forecasted delivery dates for inbound shipments, including scheduled day of delivery
- Exception updates that could potentially change delivery dates
- Ship date
- Forecasted rescheduled day of delivery if necessary
- Shipped from and shipped to address information
- Location ID
- Delivery information about shipments shipped to and received at your Location ID, including delivery date and time
- C.O.D. amount
- References
- Full delivery address
Inbound Notification – One of two services offered through Quantum View InboundTM. Inbound Notification provides complete manifest information including:
- Forecasted delivery dates for inbound packages, including scheduled day of delivery
- Exception updates that could potentially change delivery dates
- Ship date
- Forecasted rescheduled day of delivery if necessary
- Shipped from and shipped to address information
- Location ID
International Customer Service Center – Responds to questions regarding International Shipments originating from the U.S. and Import Shipments to the U.S. You can call 1-800-782-7892 to contact the International Customer Service Center.
In-Transit Bond – A bond that allows a shipment to be transported or warehoused under U.S. Customs and Border Protection supervision until it is formally entered into the customs territory of the United States and duty is paid, or until it is exported from the United States.
J
K
L
Large Package – The designation for a UPS Ground, domestic air, or UPS 3 Day Select package whose length, combined with twice the width plus twice the height, exceeds 130 inches, and is equal to or less than 165 inches.
Large Package Surcharge – A charge applied to each UPS Ground, domestic air, and 3 Day Select package sent between locations in the United States, including UPS Hundredweight or UPS Standard to Canada, that meet the following criteria: the size of the package exceeds 130 inches in length and girth combined, and/or the package is identified as a Large Package.
Less-Than-PalletLoad – Less-Than-PalletLoadSM (LPL) refers to shipments of goods or merchandise that weigh less than 1,000 pounds. Also see UPS Hundredweight Service.
Less-Than-Truckload – Shipments of goods or merchandise that comprise less than a truckload in volume.
Live Entry – Requires that the commercial invoice, original export license (if applicable), customs entry, and estimated duties must be submitted to U.S. Customs and Border Protection before the shipment can be released. There is normally a one day delay on live entry shipments. If additional information is needed, UPS will contact the recipient.
M
Multi-modal – Refers to the practice of using more than one type of transportation (ocean, air, and ground, for example) to deliver a single shipment.
Multi-piece Shipment – A shipment that contains more than one package. UPS Internet Shipping supports up to 20 packages per shipment. Note: UPS-supplied packaging, such as UPS Express, Window, Legal, or Reusable Envelopes, will be processed as single-piece shipments.
Multiple Accounts – You can manage multiple accounts and bill shipping charges to different account numbers with UPS Internet Shipping.
N
O
On-Call Pickup – Gives you the option of having your shipment picked up at your home or office in major metropolitan areas, Monday through Saturday, when using any UPS service including Air, Ground, and International.
Order Fulfillment – The process of taking orders, collecting products from inventory, and creating shipments based on customer requirements.
Origin Country – The country from which your shipment is sent.
Origin Location – The location from which your shipment originates. The Origin Location is used to help determine the cost of your shipment. It can differ from the Shipper Address, as long as both addresses are in the same country. The Origin Location is also called the Ship From Location.
Other Regulated Materials – Other Regulated Materials are products or materials that are considered hazardous materials, but are not covered under specific product classifications.
Outbound Notification – One of the services offered through Quantum View OutboundTM, the secure Web-based service that gives you access to the latest, detailed shipment information about packages you ship that are in transit with UPS. Outbound Notification provides you with complete information about outbound packages, including supply chain status updates.
Outbound Shipment – Any shipment sent from you to another party.
Overnight – Refers to the time by which delivery of letters and packages can be made by several of UPS’s Next Day Air and UPS Express services to various destinations.
P
Personal Identification Number – Used to gain access to Secure Package Tracking information. Each PIN is unique and random, consisting of alpha and numeric characters without case sensitivity. During My UPS registration, a PIN is assigned to a single User ID and Shipper Number.
Pickup Location – Identifies where UPS will pick up a package, letter, or shipment.
Pickup Status – Reveals when you can expect your package to be picked up by UPS. You can check your Pickup Status on UPS.com.
Pickup Summary Report – Lists the total packages, by service type, to be picked up by UPS at the end of the day. Your UPS driver will sign this report to confirm the packages were picked up.
Print and Mail Return Label – Offers an easy way for your customers to return a UPS-compatible shipment. At your request, UPS will send this label electronically to the customer to print and affix to the package being returned.
Print Return Label – Offers a convenient way for you to distribute return labels to your customers. Simply print out the label and include it in the outbound shipment or distribute it to your customers separately for easy returns.
Proof of Delivery – Upon request, UPS will provide Proof of Delivery (P.O.D.) via fax or mail. P.O.D. is an optional service, and an additional charge will be assessed to the shipper.
Q
Quantum View – A portfolio of visibility services designed to provide proactive status information about UPS shipments. These services include Quantum View® Data, Quantum View® Manage, and Quantum View Notify®.
R
Redirect Package – A delivery option for those times when you are not available to receive your package. You can select Redirect Package to have UPS deliver your package to a local alternate address.
Reference – When you send a shipment, you can assign a reference that will make it easier to coordinate with your or your customer’s billing or filing system. The reference can be a purchase order number, a customer’s job number, a Bill of Lading number, or a group of words that identifies the shipment.
Reference Type – Refers to the kind of reference you assign to a shipment. For example, you might reserve reference 1000 through 9999 to track your purchase orders. In this case, the reference type would be Purchase Order.
Request for Claim Payment Form – Is the form you will need to submit to UPS if you are notified that a package you shipped was damaged or lost during the delivery process.
Request Intercept – For shipments within the U.S. and Puerto Rico, you can request an intercept by selecting View History or Void Shipment to access your shipping history. UPS will perform one of the following intercept actions: return to sender, deliver to another address, reschedule delivery, or will call. The intercept request type you choose will be applied to all selected packages, and you will only be charged if your intercept request is completed.
Returns Management – Return of a shipment or order from recipient back to shipper. Reasons can include order inaccuracy, customer dissatisfaction, diagnostics and repair, damage, or return of goods into inventory. Also called Reverse Logistics.
Reverse Logistics – Return of a shipment or order from recipient back to shipper. Reasons can include order inaccuracy, customer dissatisfaction, diagnostics and repair, damage, or return of goods into inventory. Also called Returns Management.
S
Saturday Delivery – Saturday delivery service is available for UPS Next Day Air and 2 Day Air shipment to most major metropolitan areas and from Canada to the United States. Also offered for UPS Worldwide Express Plus and UPS Worldwide Express for shipments to Canada, Germany, and the United Kingdom in major metropolitan areas.
Service – The UPS service type for a shipment. For more information on service types, refer to the UPS Rate and Service Guide.
Service Parts Logistics – Service Parts Logistics (SPL) supports the repair and maintenance of high-tech equipment after it’s in the hands of the customer, including the management of parts, repairs, and refurbishing.
Ship Date – The day that your package is tendered to UPS and begins the journey to its destination.
Ship From Location – The location where your shipment originates. It is used to help determine the cost of your shipment and can differ from your shipper address, as long as both addresses are in the same country. Your Ship From Location is used as the default pickup address for UPS On-Call PickupSM requests.
Shipment – Generally, packages or articles shipped. All packages shipped internationally covered under a single UPS Waybill shall be considered a single shipment. UPS Hundredweight shipments shall be considered a single shipment. Except for such international shipments and UPS Hundredweight shipments, each package or article shall be considered a separate and distinct shipment.
Shipment Reference – Allows you to track any UPS shipment by reference, rather than by tracking number. When preparing a shipment, you can assign a reference that will make it easier to coordinate with your, or your customer’s, billing or filing system.
Ship Notification – On request, UPS will provide notification of a shipment requested by the shipper using Quantum View Notify. This notification e-mail will include the tracking number(s). Fax notification is subject to an additional charge; e-mail notification is provided at no additional charge. The applicability of this term, or the availability of the referenced service, may vary according to the country of origin and country of destination.
Shipper’s Export Declaration – A Shipper’s Export Declaration (SED) is a document used for compiling U.S. export trade statistics and for export control.
Shipper Address – The name and address from your My UPS Profile. This address may be different than the Ship From Location, as long as both addresses are in the same country.
Shipper Release – Selecting Shipper Release authorizes UPS to release the package or letter on the first delivery attempt without receiving a signature. When Shipper Release is selected, the shipper accepts liability for the loss of the package after delivery has been made as provided for in the UPS Tariff, and Terms and Conditions of Service in effect at the time of the shipment. Note: Shipper Release is available from US50 and Puerto Rico origins to US50 and Puerto Rico destinations.
Shipping Options – A page in UPS Create a Shipment where you can specify shipping characteristics without setting or modifying your shipping preferences.
Shipping Preferences – Settings for your most frequently used shipping options. Setting your shipping preferences allows you to shorten the time it takes to process a shipment.
Ship To – The location where your shipment is being sent.
Single Entry Bond – A Single Entry Bond (SEB) is a one-time bond issued to ensure compliance with U.S. laws and regulations.
Single-piece Shipment – A single-piece shipment contains one package. UPS Envelopes are always single-piece shipments.
Standard Services – UPS offers a range of services to customize shipping solutions to help you better manage your shipping operations, improve tracking, and provide you with an expanded view of your shipping activity. Register at My UPS to use UPS Standard Services.
Stench Packaging – A packaging system required for certain hazardous materials that is designed to protect against the release of odors in case of leakage from a primary receptacle. You can find out what types of material require stench packaging by consulting the chemical table or by calling the UPS Hazardous Materials Support Center.
Supply Chain Management – Supply Chain Management (SCM) provides solutions for the re-engineering and management of global supply chains — from supplier through manufacturer, distributor, dealer, and/or the end consumer. UPS offers comprehensive Supply Chain Management expertise.
T
Tariff Code – A tariff code is a product-specific code as documented in the Harmonized System (HS) maintained by the World Customs Organization (WCO.) Tariff codes exist for almost every product involved in global commerce. Required on official shipping documents for tax assessment purposes, a tariff code ensures uniformity of product classification worldwide.
A complete tariff code is no less than six digits and can be up to 10. The more digits in a tariff code string, the more specific the product it identifies. A string of less than six digits is considered a partial tariff code and represents a broad product category or chapter of products in the HS.
Temporary Import Entry/Bond – A Temporary Import Bond must accompany a special customs entry for merchandise to be brought into the country exempt of duty, providing the merchandise exits the country within a certain amount of time and under U.S. Customs and Border Protection supervision.
Terms and Conditions – The Terms and Conditions are part of the UPS shipping contract, and contain the general terms and conditions under which UPS is engaged in the transportation of packages in its own territory and jointly through interchange with its affiliates. These Terms and Conditions of Service may vary depending upon the country of origin. The applicability of this term, or the availability of the referenced service, may vary according to the country of origin and country of destination.
Time-in-Transit – The number of days, excluding weekends and holidays, that a package is in transit from pickup to delivery.
Tracking Number – UPS’s Tracking numbers provide the capability to identify and trace a shipment as it moves through the UPS system to its destination. UPS automatically assigns a tracking number to your shipment. UPS will also track other types of tracking numbers, using unique numeric formats that contain from four to 20 characters. These types include UPS InfoNotice numbers, UPS Service Notice numbers, PRO numbers, House Air Waybill numbers, and House Bill of Lading numbers.
Transit Time – Determines delivery dates and times for all UPS services for more than 200 countries and territories. International delivery dates and times are for door-to-door service, including customs clearance.
Transportation Charges – These represent the base shipping costs for a package. Transportation Charges do not include declared value fees, adjustments or refunds.
U
U.S. Shipper’s Export Declaration – A U.S. Shipper’s Export Declaration (SED) is a standard United States government form required for all U.S. exports with commodities valued at US $2,500 or higher. It is also mandatory for shipments which require a U.S. Department of Commerce validated export license or a U.S. Department of State license, regardless of the value of the goods.
UPS Account Number – An account number assigned by UPS to a shipper for billing purposes.
UPS Account Owner – Companies with a UPS account will usually identify one person as the UPS Account Owner. This person authorizes who will be able to use a UPS service, bill charges for that service to a UPS Account, and receive shipment information related to a UPS Account. The Account Owner can also approve and delegate authority to sub-administrators to help manage day-to-day requests.
UPS Address Validation – A UPS OnLine Tool that allows you to confirm addresses down to the street-level in the United States.
UPS Air Hundredweight Service – Offers discount pricing for multiple package shipments weighing less than 1,000 lbs. that are sent by air to a single recipient, at one location, on the same day.
UPS Airlines – The trade name under which UPS operates one of the world’s largest airlines to serve more than 200 countries and territories worldwide.
UPS Billing Data – A single data file that contains UPS shipping information for all the account numbers you have enrolled. Multiple accounts can be combined for a comprehensive view of your UPS shipping costs (available in more than 35 countries).
UPS sends an e-mail to up to five addresses of your choice. A link in the e-mail allows recipients to securely download billing data. You can analyze charges by using the downloadable Billing Analysis Tool. The tool works with billing data to produce insightful reports that support your business processes.
UPS CampusShip – A Web-based, UPS-hosted shipping system designed specifically for enterprise use.
UPS Consignee Billing – An alternative billing option, also called Collect Billing, in which UPS bills shipping charges to the recipient. UPS accepts shipments for Consignee billing as long as the recipient has a valid UPS account number and has agreed to accept the charges. The shipper is responsible for all charges in the event of non-payment by the recipient. The applicability of this term, or the availability of the referenced service, may vary according to the country of origin and country of destination.
UPS Customer Center – A Customer Center is a UPS-owned and staffed shipping location equipped to assist you with any UPS international, air or ground package shipment. Most Customer Centers are found on-site at UPS operating facilities nationwide, with some in busy metropolitan areas. Hours of operation vary by location.
UPS Drop Box – With later pickup times and nearly 40,000 locations, UPS Drop Boxes provide convenience, security, and ease of use to meet the demands of your busy schedule. UPS Drop Boxes accept all UPS service levels 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and are available at the nearest self-service location.
UPS Import Freight Collect – Allows import shipments from your international vendors and suppliers to be billed to your UPS account. Provides you with multiple shipment options, all using import rates fixed in U.S. dollars.
UPS InfoNotice – The document left by a UPS driver to indicate that a delivery has been attempted. Each UPS InfoNotice® contains a UPS InfoNotice number that allows you to track, change delivery options, and verify the arrival of your packages.
UPS Internet Shipping – Allows you to conveniently prepare domestic and international shipments online. UPS’s Web-based shipping service does not require any additional software, and shipments can be paid for by credit card or UPS Account Number. It includes the ability to:
- Create professional labels
- Store up to 300 addresses in your address book
- Access your previous shipments
- Track a shipment
- View proof of delivery
UPS Location – Self-service and staffed shipping locations at which you can drop off your UPS shipment. Use Find Locations to find a convenient location nearest you.
UPS On-Call Pickup – Gives you the convenience of having a shipment picked up at your home or office in major metropolitan areas.
UPS OnLine Tools – Internet-based applications that add functionality to your e-commerce Web site or enterprise application. UPS OnLine Tools allow your customers to track the products that they have purchased online, compare and choose from a variety of shipping services that best serve their needs, and handle shipping logistics more efficiently than ever before.
The six tools include:
- UPS Tracking
- UPS Signature TrackingSM
- UPS Rates and Service Selection
- UPS Time in Transit
- UPS Address Validation
- UPS Shipping
UPS OnLine WorldShip – UPS’s next generation global shipping software solution. Designed to integrate the power of Windows shipping software with the flexible real-time information enabled by Internet connectivity, UPS OnLine WorldShip combines the best features of UPS’s previous shipping solutions while leveraging the latest technology.
UPS PDF Invoice – An exact copy of the UPS paper invoice, in an electronic format. UPS sends an e-mail to up to five e-mail addresses. The e-mail contains a link that allows customers to securely download the PDF copy of the invoice. UPS PDF Invoice is available for both the Domestic/Export and Import UPS charges.
UPS Ready Program – UPS ReadyTM Program includes approved developers that meet UPS standards for providing you a wide range of technology solutions from warehouse management systems and hardware specialists to regional integration services.
UPS Returns – Offers several return label options, including Authorized Return Service labels, UPS Print Return labels, UPS Print & Mail Return labels, and UPS Electronic Return Labels. These services are available for UPS Next Day Air, UPS 2nd Day Air, UPS 3 Day Select, and UPS Ground services within the United States.
UPS Returns Plus – Offers two pickup options for returning shipments, including 1 UPS Pickup Attempt and 3 UPS Pickup Attempts. These options are available for UPS Next Day Air, UPS 2nd Day Air, UPS 3 Day Select and UPS Ground services within the United States.
UPS Signature Tracking – Advanced tracking technology that enables companies to obtain instant Proof of Delivery (P.O.D.) of goods with a digital signature.
UPS Time in Transit – A UPS OnLine Tool that displays all UPS shipping services and their availability worldwide. UPS Time in Transit determines the scheduled delivery date and time, as well as the number of days the package will be in transit.
UPS Tracking – An online system that allows you and your intended recipients to track the delivery status of a shipment. You can access tracking information with a tracking number, an import tracking number, a reference, or an e-mail address.
V
Value-Added Services – Optional services to enhance your pickup, delivery, or tracking, like C.O.D., Delivery Confirmation, Return Services, Declared Value, or Notification services. Additional charges may apply for some value-added services.
Verbal Confirmation of Delivery – One of the delivery confirmation options you have when you send a package UPS Next Day Air Early A.M. When you use this service, UPS will call you to confirm delivery of your package.
Verification Question – A piece of information you establish when you register with My UPS. For example, you may select Mother’s Maiden Name as your verification question. If you forget your My UPS password, you will be asked to provide your mother’s maiden name to verify your identity and retrieve your password.
W
X
Y
Z
Zone – A service area on which shipping rates are based.
Zone and Rate Charts – Use the Zone and Rate Charts to determine UPS shipping rates worldwide. You can use the zone number, along with the weight of your shipment, to obtain the shipping rate.