Glossary
Terms & Glossaries of Shipping and Trading
Label
Label is a fundamental term in the freight industry, referring to a physical or digital identifier attached to cargo, packaging, or containers to communicate essential information about contents, handling instructions, hazards, and regulatory compliance. Labels ensure traceability, safety, and adherence to global shipping standards.
1. Labels serve three primary functions:
① Identification: Track cargo ownership, destination (e.g., "Bill of Lading No."), and consignee details.
②Safety: Warn handlers of hazards (e.g., flammable, corrosive, or fragile goods).
③Regulatory Compliance: Meet legal requirements for international transport (e.g., customs declarations, dangerous goods codes).
Label Type | Application | Key Standards |
Shipping Label | Displays consignee, origin, tracking number | ISO 15394 (package labeling) |
Hazardous Goods | Classifies dangerous cargo (e.g., explosives) | IMDG Code (sea), IATA (air), DOT (road) |
Weight & Handling | Indicates gross weight, "Fragile," "This Side Up" | IMO SOLAS VI/2 (container weight) |
Customs Declaration | Lists contents, value, HS codes for import/export | WCO SAFE Framework |
RFID/Barcode | Enables automated tracking and inventory | GS1-128, ISO/IEC 15418 |
①Dangerous Goods: Labels must include UN number, hazard class, and pictograms per IMDG Code Chapter 5.2.
②Food & Pharma: Temperature-controlled labels (e.g., "Keep Frozen") under FDA 21 CFR Part 11 or EU GDP Guidelines.
③Sustainability: Recyclable or reusable packaging labels compliant with ISO 14021.
①Smart Labels: RFID tags or QR codes for real-time tracking (e.g., Maersk’s Remote Container Management).
②Blockchain: Tamper-proof digital labels for supply chain transparency (IBM Food Trust).
③Thermal Printing: Weather-resistant labels for harsh environments (Zebra Technologies).
Case Study:
In 2019, a mislabeled lithium battery shipment caused a cargo plane fire in Dubai. Post-incident, IATA mandated dual-language hazard labels (English + local language) and stricter verification processes.
