Lost in Shipping Jargon? Here’s the Ultimate Guide to Acronyms You Must Know

Shipping is full of confusing acronyms — but it doesn’t have to be. In this ultimate guide, we break down common shipping terms like ETA, FOB, CIF, TEU, and more so clients and partners can navigate logistics with confidence. T he shipping industry is one of the busiest and most globalized sectors in the world — but it also comes with a language of its own. Acronyms like ETA, FOB, CIF, BOL, and TEU often appear in contracts, emails, and conversations, leaving many clients and even new professionals scratching their heads. While these abbreviations make communication faster for industry insiders, they can feel overwhelming for those outside the shipping circle. That’s why we’ve created this guide — a simple yet comprehensive breakdown of the most common shipping acronyms you’re likely to encounter. Whether you’re a client, a business partner, or someone new to logistics, this resource will help you decode the jargon, avoid costly misunderstandings, and build confidence in e...