GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 22, 2026

Consignee

The consignee is the individual or company named in the bill of lading, air waybill (AWB), or other transport document as the party entitled to take delivery of a shipment at its destination.

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Last updated: 22 June 2026Published: 19 June 2025

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Consignee

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Logistics Concept

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1 min

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116

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3 articles

Definition & Explanation

The consignee is the individual or company named in the bill of lading, air waybill (AWB), or other transport document as the party entitled to take delivery of a shipment at its destination. In international trade, the consignee is not necessarily the buyer: an appointed importer, distributor, or local agent frequently acts as consignee while the actual purchaser appears separately as the notify party. Carriers may release cargo only to the named consignee—any deviation requires explicit written authorization. Under an order bill of lading, the right to receive goods arises only upon endorsement and presentation of the original document. Customs authorities use the consignee details to identify the importing party and match shipments to import declarations.