What shipping document is commonly used for ships and barges?

The cargo manifest is a critical document used in maritime shipping, specifically for ships and barges. It serves as a detailed list that outlines all the goods being transported, including their descriptions, quantities, and destinations. This document is essential not only for tracking and securing cargo but also for ensuring compliance with international shipping regulations and safety procedures.

In the context of hazardous materials, a cargo manifest is particularly important because it allows emergency responders, such as Haz-Mat teams, to quickly and accurately assess the nature of the goods on board in case of an incident. The manifest provides vital information that helps in managing and mitigating potential risks associated with the cargo, including hazardous materials.

The bill of lading is an essential document for shipping but is more commonly associated with the contract of carriage and does not provide the same level of detail about the cargo as a cargo manifest. The waybill serves a similar purpose but is typically used for ground transportation. An airbill is specific to air freight and distinctly differs from maritime shipping documentation. Thus, in the context of ships and barges, the cargo manifest is the most appropriate and relevant shipping document.