Blind Shipment

What is a Blind Shipment?

A blind shipment is a freight shipping arrangement where the shipper or the receiver of the goods does not have access to the other’s contact information, typically the address and the identity. This information is ‘blinded’ or hidden by the freight forwarder or third-party logistics (3PL) provider handling the transaction. Now that you know the blind shipment meaning, let’s take a look what are the types of blind shipments and why are they used.

There are two types of blind shipments

1. Single-blind shipment: The shipper doesn’t know the receiver’s address, but the receiver is aware of the shipper’s information.

2. Double-blind shipment: Both the shipper and the receiver are unaware of each other’s information.

Why is Blind Shipment Used?

Blind shipment is predominantly used when a middleman, such as a dealer or a distributor, does not want the shipper (manufacturer) and receiver (customer) to contact each other directly, preventing bypassing or removal of the middleman from the supply chain. This arrangement preserves business relationships and prevents price negotiations between the manufacturer and the end customer.

Implications for the Trucking Industry

The trucking industry plays a pivotal role in blind shipments, acting as the trusted intermediary that facilitates these transactions. Here’s how it impacts the industry:

1. Trust and Confidentiality: Trucking companies must maintain high levels of confidentiality when handling blind shipments to protect the business interests of their clients. Breaches of trust can lead to loss of contracts and damage reputations.

2. Enhanced Responsibility: Blind shipments often increase the administrative responsibilities of trucking companies. They may be tasked with managing billing, documentation, and sometimes even repackaging the shipments to conceal original packaging.

3. Opportunities for Niche Service: Offering blind shipping services can be a unique selling proposition for trucking companies. It opens up opportunities to serve a specific market segment that requires these services, potentially leading to increased business.

While not a common practice is a crucial aspect of the trucking industry in certain circumstances. It presents both opportunities and challenges for trucking companies, requiring careful handling, and additional responsibilities, but also offering potential business growth.