Glossary
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Example H2
Supply Chain Glossary
ABC analysis
Advanced Shipping Notice (ASN)
Agile supply chain
Air waybill (AWB)
Arrival notice
Automatic Identification Systems (AIS)
Backhauling
Backorder
Bayplan
Beneficial Cargo Owner (BCO)
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Blank sailing
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CIF (Cost, Insurance and Freight)
Cargo release
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Carrier
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Certificate of origin
Commercial invoice
Commodity
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Consignee
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Container freight station
Container grade
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Cross docking
Customer
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DAP (Delivered At Place)
DDP (Delivered Duty Paid)
DDU (Delivered Duty Unpaid)
DPU (Delivered At Place Unloaded)
Dangerous goods declaration
Deadheading
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Depot
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Digital twin
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Discharge / Discharging of container
Discharge instructions
Dock receipt
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Drop shipping
EDI booking
EORI number
ETA (Estimated Time of Arrival)
EXW (Ex Works)
Economic Order Quantity (EOQ)
Electronic Product Code (EPC)
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Event
Exception
Expedited freight
FAS (Free Alongside Ship)
FCA (Free carrier)
FOB (Free on board)
Feeder operator
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Financial clearance status
Flags of Convenience
Fourth Party Logistics (4PL)
Freight forwarding
Freight visibility
Full truckload (FTL) freight
GLEC framework
Gate-out
German Supply Chain Act
Global Trade Item Number (GTIN)
Goods Receipt Note (GRN)
Haulage equipment
Haulage requirements
Haulage type
Haulier
House Bill of Lading (HBL)
Hub and spoke model
INCOTERMS
ISO 14083
Import duty
In gauge cargo
Inbound logistics
Inland transport request
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POL (Port of Loading)

What does POL mean?

POL (Port of Loading) refers to the specific port where goods are loaded onto a vessel for transportation. In international shipping, the POL is a critical point in the logistics process, marking the beginning of the goods' journey from the exporter to the importer. The term is frequently used in shipping documents, including bills of lading and shipping manifests, to specify where the cargo is loaded onto a ship.

Port of Lading vs. Port of Loading

The terms "Port of Lading" and "Port of Loading" are often used interchangeably and essentially mean the same thing. Both refer to the port where cargo is loaded onto a vessel. The term "lading" is derived from the Old English word for loading, reinforcing the idea that it signifies the starting point of the cargo's sea voyage. In modern logistics, "Port of Loading" is the more commonly used term.

Port of Loading vs. Port of Discharge

While the Port of Loading (POL) is where goods are loaded onto a vessel, the Port of Discharge (POD) is where they are unloaded. The POL and POD are crucial in determining the transportation route, shipping costs, and delivery timelines. The distinction between these two ports is vital for logistics planning and coordination, as it helps in understanding the full shipping process and managing expectations for delivery.

Importance of POL in Supply Chain and Logistics

For supply chain and logistics professionals, particularly those new to the field, understanding the concept of the POL is essential. It plays a significant role in:

  • Shipping Documentation: Accurately identifying the POL in shipping documents ensures compliance and smooth customs clearance processes.
  • Logistics Planning: Knowing the POL helps in planning the transportation route, calculating transit times, and coordinating with carriers and port authorities.
  • Cost Management: The choice of POL can influence shipping costs due to varying port fees, handling charges, and proximity to the origin of the goods.