What Is Shipper’s Letter of Instruction (SLI)

Definition

SLI is a standardized written document submitted by exporters to freight forwarders, containing all complete shipment information required to generate bills of lading, customs declarations and booking orders. It is the fundamental data source for all subsequent logistics documents.

Main Information Included

Full shipper, consignee and notify party names, addresses and contact details
Detailed cargo description, HS code, quantity, packages, gross weight & volume
Shipping mark, container type, required B/L type (original / telex release)
Freight term: prepaid or collect, special transport requirements
Special remarks: fragile, DG, temperature control, transshipment restrictions

Core Functions

Provide accurate data basis for forwarders to submit shipping instruction (SI) to carriers
Unify information for customs export declaration to avoid data discrepancies
Serve as written confirmation between shipper and forwarder to clarify delivery requirements
Prevent wrong information on B/L which may trigger L/C discrepancies

Why It’s Easily Ignored

Many shippers casually send fragmented information via chat instead of filling formal SLI
Copy old SLI templates without updating latest consignee or cargo details
Ignore tiny details like address abbreviations and spelling differences
Think minor data errors can be amended free of charge later

Consequences of Incomplete or Wrong SLI

Incorrect B/L information leading to expensive amendment fees
Customs declaration mismatch resulting in inspection and shipment delay
Letter of credit discrepancy causing bank rejection of payment
Wrong consignee info blocking overseas cargo pickup

Practical Tips

Fill SLI completely and double-check spelling, numbers and addresses before submission
Update all fields when switching buyers or cargo specifications, do not reuse outdated forms
Mark special handling demands clearly on SLI for forwarder’s priority arrangement
Keep a signed copy of submitted SLI for document error tracing

Key Takeaway

The SLI is the source document of all shipping papers. Precise, complete submission eliminates most document errors, amendment costs and clearance risks throughout the whole shipment process.

Share this article :

top