Defining the Parties
There are several different parties involved in importing goods from overseas. Katie Flanigan,
Gallagher’s Import Manager and Licensed Customs Broker, gives an Import Logistics class several times a
year at Denver’s World Trade Center. The first thing she teaches to her students is the definition of all
the parties involved – and there are a lot!
If you are a first-time importer, or new to the industry, this comprehensive list of customs terms and
definitions is a perfect place to start. It is important to understand the similarities and differences
between each of these terms and they may be used separately or interchangeable depending upon the
scenario.
Customs Terms
Manufacturer / Supplier / Seller / Shipper / Freight Forwarder / NVOCC / Carrier / CFS / Importer / Ultimate Consignee / Customs Brokers / Self-Filers
Manufacturer: The party or entity responsible for the physical production of the goods
Supplier: The party or entity who is the source for the goods & makes the goods available
Seller: The party or entity who is responsible for collecting payment in exchange for the goods
Shipper: The party or entity responsible for shipping/initiating shipping of goods
Freight Forwarder: The party or entity which arranges for the transportation of goods on behalf
of the owner
NVOCC: Non-vessel Operating Common Carrier
Carrier: The party or entity responsible for the conveyance of goods
Container Freight Station (CFS): A handling/warehousing facility located near a Customs port
which accepts and unloads cargo containers
Importer: The party or entity responsible for the importation of goods
Importer of Record: For Customs purposes, the entity responsible for ensuring the
imported goods comply
Are you interested in learning more about Import Logistics? Call us at 303-365-1000 or email us today to learn when Katie’s next class is being held.
