This transaction set is used to communicate a consolidated list of consignments being transported via vessel or motor carrier. Typically sent by freight forwarders, shipping lines, or logistics providers to port authorities, customs brokers, or receiving terminals, the 326 provides a summary overview of multiple shipments consolidated under one or more bills of lading. Key segments include the V1 (Vessel Identification) segment, which identifies the transport vessel or carrier; the MBL (Bill of Lading) segment, which references the master bill of lading number; and the R4 (Port or Terminal) segment, which specifies the origin and destination ports or terminals involved in the shipment.

Consider a practical scenario where Global Logistics Inc., a freight forwarder, prepares a consignment summary list for a shipment arriving at the Port of Long Beach. The 326 transaction includes vessel details identifying the container ship “Ocean Express,” references the master bill of lading MBL123456, and lists multiple consignments being transported. The R4 segments identify Shanghai as the port of loading and Long Beach as the port of discharge, with associated date/time references for the vessel’s arrival. Port Authority of Long Beach receives this summary to prepare for cargo processing, conduct customs inspections, and coordinate terminal operations before the vessel arrives.