LCL
Less than container load. Several consignments share a container; origin and destination consolidation handling may be separate cost items.
FCL
Full container load. A container is allocated for the shipment; confirm equipment type, quantity, loading and weight limits.
CBM
Cubic metres. Outer length × width × height in centimetres ÷ 1,000,000 gives volume for one package.
Chargeable weight
The weight used for billing. Air/express commonly compare gross and dimensional weight, subject to carrier rules.
W/M
Weight or measurement. LCL quotations may compare cubic metres with metric tonnes; ratio and minimums must be confirmed.
HS code
A commodity classification reference. Product materials, function and national tariff detail affect the final classification.
AWB / B/L
Air waybill / bill of lading. Transport documents with shipment and party references; release requirements depend on the document and carrier.
ETD / ETA
Estimated departure / arrival. Estimates are planning milestones, not guaranteed delivery dates.
Cut-off
The latest accepted time for cargo or documents for a departure. Cargo and documentation can have different cut-offs.
PO / POD
Purchase order / proof of delivery. References connecting what was ordered with what was handed over to the recipient.
Incoterms®
Agreed trade terms allocate specified delivery tasks, costs and risks between buyer and seller. State the term, named place and edition in the contract; clarify the logistics scope separately.
Demurrage / detention
Container time-related charges. Confirm applicable free time, start/end events and rates in the relevant quotation.
Connect the term to the document
A booking reference, bill of lading and purchase order serve different purposes. When asking for an update, copy the reference and its label from the original document rather than sending an unexplained number.
Units change the comparison
CBM measures volume, while kilograms measure weight; neither is a price. Check whether the quotation uses chargeable kilograms, a weight/measurement basis or a container rate before comparing totals.
Confirm the agreed version
Record the named place and rule version when a trade term is agreed. Use the ICC source below as an official reference, and clarify the practical handover and charges in the written quote.