In today’s global trade landscape, managing export regulations and paperwork can overwhelm businesses. Exporter of Record (EOR) services offer a solution to simplify international trade operations. As industry leaders, we’re here to guide you through this crucial aspect of cross-border commerce.

EOR services streamline exports by handling legal responsibilities and documentation requirements for goods leaving a specific country. By tapping into our expertise, companies can concentrate on their core business while ensuring compliance with domestic and international trade rules.

This article will explore the roles of exporters, shippers, and consignors and how EOR services connect these vital parts of the global supply chain. We’ll also highlight the advantages of using EOR services and present real-world examples of successful implementations.

The Exporter’s Role

Exporters kickstart the export process and ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and paperwork. As the main party in an export deal, they must:

  • Obtain necessary licenses, permits, and clearances
  • Accurately declare the value, classification, and origin of exported goods
  • Navigate complex regulations that vary by origin, country, destination, and product type

Failing to meet these requirements can lead to hefty fines, shipment delays, or even goods seizure.

The Shipper’s Role

Shipper definition: A shipper is the entity or person responsible for transporting the goods, often hired by the exporter to handle logistics. Their responsibilities include:

  • Arranging cargo transportation from origin to destination
  • Coordinating with carriers, customs brokers, and freight forwarders
  • Providing accurate shipping documents (bills of lading, commercial invoices, packing lists)
  • Ensuring smooth customs clearance and shipment tracking

Learn more about the differences between EOR and Shipper

The Consignor’s Role

Consignor definition: A consignor (also called seller or supplier) is the entity or person sending goods to another party, typically a shipper or consignee.

  • Prepare and provide essential documents (commercial invoices, packing lists, certificates of origin)
  • Ensure proper packaging, labeling, and shipment readiness
  • Communicate product details, quantities, and delivery schedules to exporters and shippers

Difference Between Exporter, Shipper, and Consignor

Understanding the difference between exporter, shipper, and consignor is crucial for effective trade operations. Here’s a summary:

Aspect Exporter Shipper Consignor
Definition The party is responsible for exporting goods from one country to another. The entity or person physically transports the goods (usually handles logistics). The entity or person who sends goods to another party, typically a shipper or consignee.
Role Initiates the export process and deals with export documentation, customs, and regulations. Handles the physical transportation of goods from one location to another, often hired by the exporter. Sends goods to another party (often a shipper or carrier) for transportation or further handling.
Responsibilities Ensures compliance with export regulations, prepares necessary paperwork (invoices, permits), and arranges transport to the port of departure. Ensures goods are securely packed, labeled, and transported to the destination as specified by the exporter. Prepares goods for shipment, including packaging and labeling, and hands them over to the shipper or carrier.
Legal Liability Primary responsibility for export compliance and accuracy of documentation. Liability for physical loss or damage to goods during transit. Liability until goods are delivered to the shipper or carrier and responsibility for ensuring goods are as described.

In summary, the exporter vs shipper vs consignor distinctions highlight the unique roles each plays in international trade. While exporters handle the legal aspects of exports, shippers focus on transportation logistics, and consignors initiate the shipment process.

Our company takes pride in offering comprehensive Exporter of Record (EOR) services that streamline the export process, empowering businesses to focus on their core competencies. With our team of experts, cutting-edge technology, and global network, we are dedicated to supporting your international trade endeavors, ensuring seamless and compliant operations at every stageFill out the form below for a quick response. 

Talk To Our Expert Team

Contact Form Demo