Consignee

In logistics, a consignee is the person or entity that receives transported merchandise, whether by land, sea, air, or rail. They are the final recipient to whom the cargo is directed and who has the right to claim it at the destination point. The consignee can be a client, an intermediary, or even a distribution company, depending on the shipment's nature and the established contract. Consignee roles and responsibilities: Merchandise reception: They are responsible for receiving goods at the specified destination. They must inspect the merchandise to verify it arrived in agreed conditions. Documentation: Present necessary documents, such as the bill of lading, the bill of lading (B/L) in case of maritime transport, or the air waybill in air shipments, to claim the cargo. Legal compliance: Must guarantee that merchandise complies with customs regulations, in case of international shipments, and with any other applicable regulations. Payment (if applicable): In some cases, the consignee is responsible for covering transport costs or tariffs, depending on agreed terms (Incoterms). Difference between shipper and consignee: Shipper: Is the one who sends the merchandise, being the original owner or who manages the transport. Consignee: Is the one who receives the merchandise at the final destination and generally becomes the owner once delivered. Practical example: Imagine a furniture company in Mexico (shipper) that exports a batch of products to a store in Texas, U.S. (consignee). The furniture company hires a carrier to make the shipment. Once the furniture arrives at the Texas store, the consignee verifies the merchandise and presents necessary documents to claim it.