What Labels & Marks Does Your Cargo Need?
Select your cargo type and destination to see the exact marks, labels, and regulatory requirements that must appear on your packages.
The 6 Types of Shipping Marks
Every export shipment requires a combination of marks. Each type serves a different purpose — from identification to regulatory compliance.
Destination Marks
Identify where the cargo is going. Include: consignee name or code, destination port or city, country of destination, and package number (e.g. 1/20, 2/20). Should appear on at least two sides of each package. Use the same marks exactly as stated in the Bill of Lading and commercial invoice.
Shipping Marks (Case Marks)
The unique identifier agreed between shipper and buyer to identify the consignment. Typically a short code, PO number, or initials followed by a serial number. Example: 'ABC/NYC/2025/001–020'. Must match across all documents (invoice, packing list, B/L) exactly.
Handling Marks
Internationally standardised pictograms (ISO 780) indicating how packages must be handled. Common symbols: fragile (broken wine glass), keep dry (umbrella), this side up (arrows), do not stack (crossed layers), temperature limit, sling here. No text is required — symbols are understood globally.
Weight & Dimension Marks
Gross weight and net weight of each package, and overall dimensions (L × W × H in cm or inches). Required by most carriers and customs. Center of gravity marking required for heavy or irregular lifts. Dangerous goods packages must show the gross weight on the package.
Country of Origin Mark
"Made in [Country]" or "Product of [Country]" — required by customs in most importing countries. The origin must match the Certificate of Origin and commercial invoice. US CBP requires country of origin on most imported goods. EU requires origin marking for goods where it could mislead consumers. Must be in English for most markets.
Dangerous Goods Labels
Mandatory under IMDG Code (sea), IATA DGR (air), and ADR (road) for all dangerous goods. Labels are diamond-shaped (100mm × 100mm minimum for sea/air), colour-coded by hazard class. Must include: hazard class number, subsidiary risk label (if applicable), and UN number. Labels must be on two opposite sides of the package.
IMO / IMDG Hazard Class Labels
Dangerous goods must carry standardised diamond labels by hazard class. Labels must be 100mm × 100mm minimum for sea/air shipments.
Labels must be diamond-shaped, minimum 100×100mm (sea/air). Affix on two opposite sides of each package. Source: IMDG Code Amendment 41-22 / IATA DGR 65th Edition.
6 Marking Mistakes That Cause Delays
Marks don't match documents
The shipping marks on the carton must exactly match the marks shown on the packing list, commercial invoice, and bill of lading. Even minor differences (abbreviations, hyphens, case) give customs grounds to query the shipment.
Missing country of origin
US CBP and many other customs authorities will detain goods with missing or incorrect country of origin markings. The goods may be required to be marked at the port before release — at the importer's cost and delay.
Wrong or missing DG labels
Undeclared or mislabeled dangerous goods are one of the most serious violations in shipping. Carriers can refuse cargo, impose heavy fines, and the shipper faces criminal liability if undeclared DG causes an incident. Labels must be the correct class, correct size, and affixed on two opposite sides.
No package numbers
Each package should be numbered (1/20, 2/20, etc.) matching the packing list. Unnumbered packages create reconciliation problems at customs and during cargo surveys. If a package is missing, there's no way to identify which one.
Marks on only one side
Destination marks and shipping marks should appear on at least two sides of each package (preferably all four for large cartons). Handling marks must be on all sides where relevant. Marks on a single face may not be visible when packages are stacked.
Non-permanent, non-legible marking
Marks must be durable enough to survive the voyage — resist moisture, handling, and temperature changes. Adhesive labels without protective coating degrade in humid conditions. For long sea voyages, use stencilling, branding, or waterproof labels. Faded or smeared marks cause customs delays.