Shipper

In the maritime context, a shipper is an individual or a company that contracts with a carrier (a shipping line or a freight forwarder) to transport goods to a specified destination. The shipper is responsible for preparing and packing the cargo in a manner suitable for transportation, providing the necessary documentation, and ensuring that the cargo complies with all relevant regulations. The shipper may also be responsible for arranging insurance for the cargo. The shipper's responsibilities and liabilities are typically outlined in a contract of carriage, which is a legal agreement between the shipper and the carrier. The shipper may also be involved in negotiating freight rates and other terms of the shipping contract. In some cases, the shipper may also be the consignee (the recipient of the cargo), but this is not always the case. The shipper plays a crucial role in the maritime supply chain, as they are the starting point of the cargo's journey.