A delivery order (D/O) is a document the consignee needs to collect goods at the port. It is issued by the shipping line, but collecting cargo using a paper D/O can involve inconvenient administrative steps. Digital systems have made it possible to replace that paperwork with an electronic alternative. In Vietnam, electronic delivery orders (eDOs) were first used on October 1, 2018, with shipping line MCC in the implementation described here. Since then, their practical advantages have supported a gradual shift away from paper delivery orders.
What is an electronic delivery order?
An electronic delivery order , or eDO , replaces the traditional paper delivery order. In the process described here, it is sent as a PDF by email, making cargo collection more convenient and efficient. It is a practical example of digital technology improving service for customers of shipping lines, customs authorities, and providers of customs clearance services
Why eDOs matter
Electronic delivery orders benefit shipping lines, importers, and customs authorities. With a paper D/O, the business must collect the document from the shipping line and take it to the port to complete the relevant collection procedures. That requires staff time and travel. With an eDO, the business registers confirmation through the electronic system, pays the applicable charges, and proceeds to the discharge location to collect the container.
For customs authorities
The electronic system supports more efficient administration and provides a useful basis for invoice records and tax checks. It helps customs connect with shipping lines, ports, importers, and shipment information without relying solely on paper document comparisons.
Read more: Customs clearance services from Alphatrans
For shipping lines
Electronic delivery orders help shipping lines and transport providers reduce the staffing and time needed to process paperwork. More accurate information supports cargo control and reduces the risk of financial loss. Shipment details and container numbers can also be amended within minutes.
For importers and exporters
Digital delivery orders offer businesses several practical benefits:
- No staff trip to the shipping line to collect a paper D/O.
- Access to the delivery order wherever an internet connection is available.
- Less time and lower costs when collecting cargo at the port.
- Simpler, shorter procedures than the traditional paper process.
- Less waiting for the shipping line to release the delivery order.
- Reduced risk of an unprocessed delivery order being lost in courier transit.
- Lower exposure to documentation errors and forged documents.
- Better information security.
ePort: access to electronic delivery order information
The ePort system lets businesses look up containerdetails, vessel names, voyage numbers, and container lists for import and export shipments. It also supports online cargo handover procedures. The implementation described here operates through a web browser rather than a separate application.
Collecting cargo using an eDO
The process outlined here includes the following steps:
- Register a business account on the relevant shipping line portal.
- Use the account to register cargo collection once the eDO is available.
- Submit the empty-container return or drop-off declaration associated with the electronic delivery order.
- Split the shipment from the master bill where required.
Cargo collection using an electronic delivery order offers practical advantages for consignees, shipping lines, and customs authorities. Understanding the process helps businesses collect goods more quickly and with less paperwork.