A double blind shipment is a logistics arrangement where both the shipper and consignee are prevented from seeing each other’s identity or address. A freight broker, distributor, or third-party logistics provider manages the shipment and uses substitute paperwork so the supplier does not know the final customer and the customer does not know the original supplier. Double blind shipping is often used to protect supplier relationships, pricing, sales channels, and confidential business arrangements.
- The forwarder creates a separate set of documents for the seller that shows the forwarder as the consignee
- The forwarder creates a separate set of documents for the buyer that shows the forwarder as the shipper
- The two document sets are coordinated so cargo moves without either party learning the other’s identity
Double blind shipments are common in distribution arrangements where an importer does not want their supplier to contact their customer directly.
Related terms: Bill of Lading (BOL), Consignor.
