GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 22, 2026
STC – Said to contain
The abbreviation STC – Said to Contain – appears on a bill of lading or air waybill when the carrier has not independently verified the contents of a shipment.
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Source: https://www.marineinsight.com/shipping-glossary/said-to-contain-stc/
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Logistics Concept
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Definition & Explanation
The abbreviation STC – Said to Contain – appears on a bill of lading or air waybill when the carrier has not independently verified the contents of a shipment. In practice, sealed containers and consolidated loads make physical inspection impossible without breaking the seal, so the carrier records the shipper's declaration exactly as provided. This notation serves a clear legal purpose: it limits the carrier's liability for any discrepancy between the declared and actual contents, placing responsibility firmly with the consignor. STC is standard practice in sea freight for both FCL and LCL shipments, and equally common in international air freight on master and house air waybills for palletised or ULD-loaded cargo.
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