A blind shipment is arranged so one trading party’s identity or source information is withheld from another party on selected shipping documents. It is often used when an intermediary wants a supplier to ship directly to its customer without revealing the supplier relationship.
How does a blind shipment work?
The intermediary coordinates the supplier, carrier and consignee, then specifies which names and addresses may appear on labels, packing lists and transport documents. Customs and carrier records must still contain legally required information.
Blind shipment versus dropshipping
Dropshipping describes a fulfillment model in which a supplier ships directly to the end customer. A blind shipment is a documentation and identity-handling arrangement that may be used within dropshipping or other supply chains.
Which documents need attention?
Review the commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, carton labels, certificates and return instructions. Do not alter a document in a way that makes a regulatory filing false or incomplete.
What are the main risks?
Common risks include revealing the supplier through packaging, conflicting shipper information, customs delays, misdirected returns and confusion over warranty responsibility.
What should be agreed before shipment?
Record the permitted identities, document owner, customs-data requirements, customer-facing contact, return route and liability for errors. Test the process before using it for a critical order.
