Various countries have different requirements as to what must be shown on the manifest. Today this is impractical for general cargo, and a provisional manifest is given to the master, for use in case of emergencies. The final manifest is delivered by the agent on arrival at the first discharge port, if required. Bulk carriers and tankers usually have the manifest on board. It is a simple matter to compile a generic manifest for electronic transmission using a database, and many carriers are doing this.
Some carriers have their proprietary systems.
The cargo manifest is an in-house document, normally available to carrier and customs only, and to terminals at discharge ports in some cases, therefore there is no reason for it to be compatible with other platforms. Some carriers are still using the age-old method of document remittance by courier, a waste of money. This is compiled from bookings and provided to the vessel before loading commences. If necessary, it is revised before sailing. The document lists the weight, quantity, packaging, class and stowage of all hazardous cargo on the vessel.