Glossary

Alongside
Refers to the side of a ship. Goods delivered alongside are placed on the dock or barge within reach of the ship’s rigging so they can be easily loaded onto...
Sun, 26 Dec, 2021 at 9:24 PM
Automated Manifest System (AMS)
The AMS is an electronic information transmission system operated by the CBP.
Sun, 26 Dec, 2021 at 9:24 PM
Arrival notice
Notification provided by the carrier when a shipment has arrived at the consignee or notify party.
Sun, 26 Dec, 2021 at 9:24 PM
BAF (Bunker Adjustment Factor)
BAF accounts for vessel fuel and fluctuates based on the price of Brent oil.
Sun, 26 Dec, 2021 at 9:25 PM
Backhaul
Cargo carried on a return journey.
Sun, 26 Dec, 2021 at 9:25 PM
Bill of lading
A document issued by a carrier or their agent acknowledging receipt of cargo for shipment. Often abbreviated as BOL or BL.
Sun, 26 Dec, 2021 at 9:25 PM
Bonded Goods
Bonded goods are goods where the customs duty hasn't been paid yet. In such cases, the goods remain in the warehouse under customs supervision until the...
Sun, 26 Dec, 2021 at 9:25 PM
Bonded Warehouse
Bonding warehouses are customs-controlled warehouses where goods for which duty has not been paid can be stored until it is paid.
Sun, 26 Dec, 2021 at 9:26 PM
CBM
Cubic Meter is a measurement of the volume of a shipment. It determines how much space the cargo will take up on a container, which in turn will decide how ...
Sun, 26 Dec, 2021 at 9:26 PM
CBP
US Customs and Border Patrol.
Sun, 26 Dec, 2021 at 9:26 PM