Shipper
The party that sends goods and contracts with the carrier, named as shipper on the bill of lading or air waybill, usually the seller or exporter.
TL;DR: The shipper is the party that hands the goods to the carrier for transport. In most export deals from China, the shipper is the seller or manufacturer.
On a Bill of Lading or Air Waybill, the shipper field names the party that contracts with the carrier and tenders the cargo. This is usually the exporter, but not always. A trading company, an agent, or a freight forwarder can also appear as shipper, depending on how the sale and booking are arranged.
The shipper is responsible for describing the goods correctly, providing accurate weights, and packing the cargo properly for the journey. For dangerous goods or overweight containers, the shipper carries specific legal duties. Many carriers also require a verified gross mass for each container, which the shipper declares.
The shipper does not always pay for freight. Under FOB, the seller is typically still named as shipper even though the buyer pays for the ocean freight. Under EXW, the buyer’s forwarder may end up listed as shipper.
For buyers, the shipper name matters when documents need to match. Under an L/C, the shipper on the B/L is often expected to be the beneficiary, and any difference can cause a discrepancy. Check the draft B/L before it is issued, since corrections after issue can cost time and fees. See also Consignee and Notify Party.