BDLDocumentation & Customs

Bundle (Bill of Lading)

Definition: BDL represents 'Bundle' in shipping packaging codes and is also widely used as an operational abbreviation for a grouped Bill of Lading packet.

Detailed Freight Guide & Operational Context

In commercial freight, BDL serves two primary industry meanings depending on context: as a standardized packaging code and as shipping line operational shorthand.

As an official packaging unit recognized by the UN Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE Rec 21) and customs manifests, BDL stands for 'Bundle'—indicating multiple cargo pieces bound, strapped, or shrink-wrapped together as a single identifiable physical handling unit (e.g., steel rebar, timber, or piping).

In maritime line operations and freight forwarder documentation, 'BDL' is also frequently written by shipping coordinators to represent a 'Bill of Lading' package or bundled document set (combining the Sea Waybill, commercial invoice, packing list, and certificate of origin) handed over to the consignee or bank under documentary credit.

Real-World Example in Practice

On a manifest for structural steel, packaging is declared as '120 BDL (Bundles)', requiring specialized crane slings rather than standard containerized pallet jacks during discharge.