What is a cargo manifest and what information does it contain?

• A. A manifest lists items, quantities, weights, origins/destinations, and special handling instructions for cargo to be transported.
• B. A weather report.
• C. A packing list for clothing items.
• D. A bill of sale.

Answer: (A)

A cargo manifest is the official record of what’s on a shipment. It lists each item or package, the quantity, the weight, where it originates and where it’s headed, and any special handling instructions needed during transport. This information lets the carrier, port authorities, and the recipient verify contents, coordinate loading and unloading, and ensure proper routing and safety.

Other options describe things that aren’t about the shipment’s contents: a weather report covers conditions, a packing list is mainly a list of clothing or items packed for a trip, and a bill of sale records transfer of ownership. The manifest focuses on the actual goods being transported and how they should be handled.