Shipping Instructions · SI
The shipper's instructions to the carrier or forwarder with everything needed to issue the bill of lading. What you write in the SI is what the B/L will say.
- Issued by
- The shipper (exporter), sent to the forwarder or shipping line.
- When it's needed
- Every ocean shipment, before the SI (documentation) cut-off — usually 1–3 days before the vessel sails.
- Transport
- Sea, Rail
What it contains
- Shipper, consignee and notify party exactly as they should appear on the B/L
- Booking number, container and seal numbers
- Description of goods and HS code
- Packages, gross weight, volume and VGM
- Type of B/L required and number of originals, freight prepaid or collect
Practical tips
- Late SI means a late B/L — or a roll-over to the next vessel.
- Use the same description and weights as on the invoice and packing list; mismatches cause customs queries.
Not sure which documents you need?
Send us the route and the goods — we'll list the documents and prepare the transport ones for you.
Contact usOther shipping documents
Bill of LadingSea WaybillAir WaybillCMR Consignment NoteRail Consignment Note (CIM, SMGS, CIM/SMGS)Commercial InvoicePacking ListCertificate of OriginExport DeclarationTransit Declaration (T1)Dangerous Goods DeclarationPhytosanitary CertificateShipping documents
General guidance only — requirements depend on the goods, the countries involved and the contract. We check the documents needed for every booking.
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