Logistics Delivery English Communication

In Singapore, logistics is the backbone of the economy. With major players like Ninja Van, J&T Express, DHL, FedEx, and Shopee Xpress, clear communication ensures parcels reach customers on time. Whether you are a warehouse packer, a delivery driver, or a dispatcher, using the correct terminology prevents costly mistakes and "failed deliveries".

1. Warehouse Operations (Inbound & Outbound)

The warehouse is where it all begins. Accuracy is key.

Receiving Goods

• Manifest: The document listing all cargo. "Check the manifest against the actual stock."
• Pallet / Skid: The wooden base for stacking boxes. "Move this pallet to Aisle 4."
• Forklift: The machine used to lift heavy pallets. "Calling forklift driver to Bay 1."
• Damage Report: "Box 5 is crushed. Mark it as damaged and take a photo."

Picking & Packing

• SKU (Stock Keeping Unit): The unique product code. "Pick 5 units of SKU A123."
• Barcode Scanner: "Scan the barcode before packing."
• Airway Bill (AWB): The shipping label. "Stick the AWB on the top surface, not the side."
• Bubble Wrap: Protective plastic. "Use extra bubble wrap for fragile items."

2. Delivery Drivers: On the Road

Drivers are the face of the company. Dealing with Singapore's traffic, ERP, and demanding customers requires patience.

Calling the Customer (Before Delivery)

Driver: "Hello, good afternoon. I am the courier from Ninja Van. I have a parcel for you."

Customer: "Oh, I am not at home right now."

Driver: "Can I leave it in the riser / shoe cabinet? Or with your neighbor?"

Customer: "Yes, leave it in the riser and take a photo please."

Driver: "Okay, I will WhatsApp you the photo proof. Thank you."

Handling "Failed Delivery"

If no one is home and they don't answer.

• "I am at your door, but no one is answering."
• "I will have to reschedule the delivery for tomorrow."
• "Please contact our customer service to arrange a re-delivery."

3. Common Singapore Delivery Locations

Understanding these terms helps navigation.

• HDB Void Deck: Ground floor open area.
• Lift Lobby: Area outside the lift.
• Condo Guard House: "I need to register at the guard house first."
• Loading Bay: Designated area for goods vehicles. "Park at the loading bay, not the main entrance."
• POPStation / Locker: "I will deposit your parcel at the POPStation nearby."

4. Warehouse Safety Terms

Warehouses are dangerous places. Safety first!

• PPE: Safety vest and safety boots are mandatory.
• "Watch Out!": Shout this if something is falling or a forklift is coming.
• Blind Spot: "Stay out of the forklift's blind spot."
• Max Load: "Do not overload the racking. Check the max load limit."

5. Problem Solving (Lost/Damaged Parcels)

When things go wrong, stay calm.

Missing Parcel

• "I cannot find the parcel with tracking number SG12345."
• "It was last scanned at the sorting hub."
• "Let me check the CCTV footage."

Damaged Parcel

• "The customer refused the delivery because the box was wet."
• "Return to sender (RTS)."
• "File a claim for the damaged goods."

6. Acronyms You Must Know

7. Conclusion

Logistics is a fast-paced industry. Speed is important, but accuracy is better. By using these standard English terms, you ensure that every parcel—from a small Shopee packet to a large pallet of electronics—arrives safely and on time. Keep moving!