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Consignee Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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consignee

[kənˈsɪɡni ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

shipping transaction

A consignee is an individual or business that receives goods shipped by a carrier. In a shipping transaction, the consignee is typically the person or organization to whom the seller (or consignor) delivers the goods. The consignee is responsible for accepting the shipment and, upon receipt, takes ownership of the merchandise. They may be required to sign a bill of lading or a receipt to acknowledge the delivery. The roles and responsibilities of the consignee can vary depending on the terms of the contract.

Synonyms

addressee, receiver, recipient.

Examples of usage

  • The consignee signed for the package upon delivery.
  • As the consignee, she is responsible for inspecting the goods.
  • The company listed John Doe as the consignee for the shipment.
  • The consignee must provide accurate information for customs clearance.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Business and Trade

  • In international trade, a consignee is often the final destination of imported goods, making them critical to supply chains.
  • The consignee assumes responsibility for the goods once they arrive, which includes ensuring payment is made if applicable.
  • Many businesses rely on consignees to facilitate the transportation and storage of products, especially in logistics.

Legal Context

  • The relationship between a shipper and a consignee can involve legal agreements outlining responsibilities.
  • In court cases, the consignee's rights over the goods can come into question if there are disputes about ownership or delivery.
  • Understanding consignment and consignee roles is essential in contract law, especially in commercial transactions.

Cultural Impact

  • In movies and books about trade, consignees are often portrayed as pivotal characters in the logistics of smuggling and transporting items.
  • The role of a consignee has evolved with e-commerce, as companies need efficient receivers for online orders to streamline operations.
  • Cultural perspectives on trade can affect how consignees are viewed, such as being trusted partners or potential liabilities.

Origin of 'consignee'

Main points about word origin

  • The term originates from the Latin word 'consignare', meaning to mark or sign together.
  • It evolved in French as 'consigner', which means to sign for something, similar to its use today.
  • In shipping, it has been used since the 19th century to identify the receiver of goods.

The term 'consignee' originates from the late 19th century and is derived from the Latin word 'consignare', which means 'to assign or designate'. This is a combination of 'con-', meaning 'together', and 'signare', meaning 'to sign'. The term was first used in English in the context of shipping and trade, representing the party receiving goods from a consignor. Over time, the definition has evolved but continues to focus on the role of the consignee in transactional shipping processes. The usage of the term has become widespread in fields such as logistics, law, and distribution, emphasizing its importance in conveying ownership and responsibility within the supply chain.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,217, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.