Freight, shipping and chartering glossary

Type
Meaning
Packing List
A product document containing a list of items included in one package (box, container, bale, etc.), which is necessary if one package contains goods of different assortments.
Pallet
A platform that allows consolidation of general cargo with the aim of accelerating and reducing the cost of their processing using mechanical means.
Pallet Charge
Surcharge applied on shipment that require palletization.
Pallet wrapping machine
A machine that wraps a pallet's contents in stretch-wrap to ensure safe shipment.
Partial Containerships
Multipurpose containerships where one or more but not all compartments are fitted with permanent container cells. Remaining compartments are used for other types of cargo.
Partner Government Agency Filing (PGA)
A division of the US federal government that regulates the import of specific products into the US.
Peak Season Surcharge (PSS)
Market imposed surcharge during high volume seasons.
Pier Pass
Surcharge associated with picking up containers from the port of LA during peak hours (3 AM-6 PM)
Port Declaration
Customs-related charge for documentation.
Port of Discharge
Port that cargo arrives to.
Port of Loading
Port that cargo departs from.
Port State Control
Inspection of foreign ships in national ports in order to verify compliance of a ship with the requirements of international law.
Power of Attorney (POA)
A legal document used in shipping to grant a customs broker the authority to process Customs clearance on your behalf.
Pre-pull
Surcharge associated with pulling containers from a port/ramp terminal to store in trucker yard.
Prepaid Freight
Note in the transport document indicating that freight is prepaid in the port of loading.
Pro Forma Invoice
An invoice issued for partial deliveries of goods or when goods are accepted upon arrival at the buyer.
Pro-forma
A template or example document containing sample data that will be replaced with real values when these are available.
Purchase Order
A written agreement between a seller and a buyer on the supply (purchase) of goods or services at an agreed price and at an agreed time.