4.3.3 Markings包装标记
Cargoes for international shipping often go for a longer and rougher journey and through people speaking different languages and of varied skills,experiences,educational levels and cultural backgrounds,which requires a clear,correct and complete marking on the packages of the cargo.
Marking in such a way helps to prevent incorrect handling or delivery,theft,customs fine and injury to workers.According to international standards,such as ISO 780 etc.,a complete marking generally comprises the information mark,the handling mark and the shipping mark.
Figure 4-4 Common Handling Marks for International Shipping
The information marks tell the country of origin,weight and dimension,which facilitate customs clearance,transportation and handing.The handling marks instruct workers to exert care with cargohandling and storage(see Figure 4-4).Pictorials are used to tell whether the package is at risk of breakage; whether it is sensitive to heat or moisture; where the top and bottom are and where the center of gravity is; where loading tackle may be slung and whether the cargo is dangerous such as flammable or explosive.
The shipping marks facilitates identification of the cargo and prevents mistakes in loading or unloading,particularly in the case of a less-than-container load,which is normally stuffed into a container with someone else’s goods.Without a conspicuous and recognizable shipping mark on the outer package,stevedores or officers may have difficulties in identifying and sorting out your cargo from others’ and additional sorting cost may be incurred.The shipping mark is also required on such documents as the invoice and the bill of lading.Thus,it is often essential to fix a shipping mark in the contract and keep it consistent through all documents that require it.A standard shipping mark recommended by the International Organization for Standardization includes initials or abbreviations of the consignee’s name,a reference number which could be the contract number,order number or the credit number,the destination and the piece number(see Figure 4-5).
Figure 4-5 A Shipping Mark