consignor

A consignor is a person or entity that sends goods to another party for transport, storage, or sale. In transportation, the consignor prepares and hands over the goods to a carrier and provides required documentation such as a bill of lading, packing list, and commercial invoice. The consignee is the designated recipient, while the carrier handles the actual transport. Ownership and risk during transit are determined by the terms of carriage and applicable law, and may differ from the agreement governing any later sale or transfer of title.

In a consignment arrangement, the consignor deposits goods with a consignee to be sold on the consignor’s behalf. The consignor typically retains ownership until a sale occurs, and proceeds from sales are paid to the consignor after deducting agreed commissions or fees. Unsold items may be returned to the consignor according to the terms of the contract. This model is common in retail stores, galleries, and marketplaces where inventory is kept on the consignee’s premises.

Common contexts for consignors include freight shipping, retail, and art or antiques markets. In each context, the consignment agreement defines key terms such as duration, pricing, commissions, insurance, liability, and return rights. The arrangement aims to align the interests of the consignor (who wishes to move goods) and the consignee (who provides space, sales capability, or access to customers) while clarifying ownership and responsibility.

Overall, the consignor is the party that originates or owns the goods and entrusts them to another for transportation, storage, or sale, under terms negotiated in a consign­ment agreement.