Apparent good order is a term indicating that freight is seemingly free of damage upon initial visual assessment. It is standard legal language used by carriers on a Bill of Lading (B/L) or Air Waybill (AWB). When a carrier issues a B/L with this notation, they are confirming that, based on a simple external inspection, the cargo appears to be in proper condition for shipping.
This is not a guarantee of the cargo’s internal condition. The carrier is not responsible for inspecting goods inside sealed crates or packaging. A “clean” bill of lading (one marked apparent good order) is crucial for the shipper, as it’s often required by banks to release payment under a Letter of Credit.
If the carrier notes external damage (crate broken, shrink wrap torn, cargo exposed to elements, etc.), the B/L becomes claused” or “foul,” which can prevent the shipper from getting paid and indicates a potential damage claim.