Documents
Delivery order (D/O)
The carrier's or agent's release document that authorises collection of the cargo from the port or warehouse at destination.
In four languages
The delivery order is issued at destination once the carrier or forwarder's agent is satisfied that the cargo can be released: the original B/L has been surrendered, or a telex release or sea waybill is confirmed, and local charges such as terminal handling and the D/O fee are paid. The D/O, now usually electronic, is needed by the clearing agent and the transporter to take the container out of the port or the cargo out of the warehouse. A blocked D/O is a common cause of demurrage, because the container sits at the terminal while the free time runs. Example: a container from Shanghai reaches Jebel Ali, but the supplier has not yet surrendered the B/L. Until the telex release is confirmed, the line will not issue the D/O and customs clearance cannot be completed.
Questions
How do I get the delivery order?
Present one original B/L or confirm the telex release or sea waybill, then pay the destination charges to the line or the forwarder's agent, which then issues the D/O.
Why is my delivery order delayed?
Common reasons are unpaid local charges, a B/L not yet surrendered at origin, or a name mismatch between the B/L and the consignee.