Freight glossaryFreight DocumentationPortsDrayage
Delivery Order (D.O.)
Definition
A delivery order (D.O.) is a document issued by the consignee or its customs broker that authorizes release of import cargo to the inland carrier who will pick it up.
What it means
That is how the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey's truckers guidebook defines it: "a document issued by the consignee or a customs broker as authority to release the cargo to the inland carrier."[1]
A delivery order is one of several releases an import needs. The same guidebook lists a freight release form, the container number and the bill of lading number among the things an import pickup must have, and tells truckers to make sure there are no freight, customs or demurrage holds on the box first.[1]
Example
A customs broker sends the drayage company a delivery order for a 40-ft container at Port Newark. The trucker checks the terminal's website for holds, books the pickup and brings the container number and bill of lading number to the gate.
Related
Related terms
- Bill of LadingA bill of lading (BOL) is the document a carrier issues for freight it receives: a receipt for the goods and...Glossary
- DrayageDrayage is the short-distance truck move of ocean or rail freight, such as hauling a container from a marine...Glossary
- Customs BrokerA customs broker is a person or company licensed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection to conduct customs...Glossary
- ConsigneeThe consignee is the party a shipment is sent to, usually the buyer; the receiver is the facility where it is...Glossary
Related questions
- What Happens After a Container Arrives at Port Newark?After the vessel discharges, the container has to be released by both Customs and the ocean carrier before...Answer
- What Does a Trucker Need to Pick Up a Container at Port Newark?At the Port Newark and Elizabeth terminals, a driver needs a valid driver's license, a TWIC and a Port...Answer
- What Are the Different Types of Container Holds?A container can be held for unrelated reasons, each cleared by a different party. A customs hold is placed by...Answer
- What Documents Are Needed to Import a Container into the U.S.?For a typical ocean import: an Importer Security Filing made before the container is loaded abroad, the bill...Answer
- Master vs. House Bill of Lading: What Is the Difference?When an NVOCC or forwarder consolidates several shipments, the ocean carrier issues one master bill of lading...Answer
Sources
- Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, “Truckers Resource Guidebook (revised July 2023),” Port authority guidance. Published July 2023. Accessed September 30, 2026.
General operational information, not legal, customs or regulatory advice. Rules and rates change; confirm current requirements with the agency, carrier or contract that governs your shipment.