# Consignee

Published July 15, 2020

The consignee is the party named on a shipment as the recipient — the individual or company to whom goods are addressed and delivered. The consignee’s name and address appear on the shipping label, [bill of lading](/content/glossary-of-shipping-terms/bill-of-lading-bol/index.html), and all customs documentation. For import shipments, the consignee is typically the importer of record responsible for duties and customs compliance.

## Consignee vs. Shipper vs. Notify Party

- **Shipper (consignor):** The party sending the goods.
- **Consignee:** The party receiving the goods.
- **Notify party:** A third party (often a customs broker or freight forwarder) notified of the shipment’s arrival but not the ultimate recipient.

## Consignee Responsibilities

The consignee is responsible for being available to receive delivery, inspecting goods for [damage](/content/glossary-of-shipping-terms/damage/index.html) or shortage and noting exceptions on the delivery receipt, and — for international shipments — ensuring import compliance and paying applicable duties and taxes. Consignees should file damage claims with the carrier promptly; most carriers require claims within 60-180 days of delivery.