In maritime shipping terminology, S/O (Shipping Order), B/L (Bill of Lading) and D/O (Delivery Order) are three key documents, each playing a vital role in the cargo transportation and customs clearance process. Below are their definitions, functions and distinctions:

1.  S/O (Shipping Order,)

Definition: An S/O is a certificate issued by the shipping company or its agent to the shipper. It confirms the booking of shipping space and allocates the specific cargo space. This document instructs the shipper to arrange for container pickup, cargo stuffing (loading goods into containers) and other related operations.

Function: The S/O serves as a credential for the shipper to complete customs declaration and cargo loading. It marks the first step in the cargo transportation process.

Content: Typically, an S/O includes information such as the vessel name, voyage number, port of loading, port of discharge and container type.

2. B/L (Bill of Lading)

Definition: A B/L is a document issued by the shipping company or its agent that serves as evidence of the cargo transportation contract. As a legal document for cargo transportation, it also functions as a document of title to the goods (meaning the holder of the B/L is entitled to take possession of the goods).

Function: It proves the existence of the cargo transportation contract, confirms that the goods have been loaded onto the vessel, and acts as the certificate of ownership of the goods.

Content: A B/L contains details including the description of the goods, transportation route, date of shipment (on-board date) and freight charges.

3. D/O (Delivery Order)

Definition A D/O is a delivery order issued by the shipping company or its agent to the consignee (recipient of the goods), which is used for taking delivery of the cargo.

Function: It is the credential that the consignee must present to collect the goods. Usually, after the goods arrive at the port of destination, the consignee first exchanges the B/L for the D/O, and then uses the D/O to pick up the goods.

Content: Unlike the B/L, a D/O does not have the function of a document of title to the goods; it is solely used for cargo collection.

Relationship and Distinctions Among the Three Documents

S/O: Serves as confirmation of cargo booking and represents the starting point of the cargo transportation process.

B/L: Acts as a legal document for cargo transportation and has the function of a document of title to the goods.

D/O: Functions as a cargo delivery certificate, used for customs clearance and goods collection at the destination port.

Summary

S/O: Confirmation of booking, used for arranging cargo loading and customs declaration.

B/L: Evidence of the transportation contract and document of title to the goods, confirming that the goods have been shipped.

D/O: Delivery order, used exclusively for collecting the goods.

These documents are interconnected throughout the maritime shipping process, ensuring the smooth transportation and delivery of the cargo.