A Bill of Lading (B/L) is a document issued by a carrier or their representative to the shipper after goods have been loaded onto the vessel or received for shipment. It serves not only as a receipt but also as a contract of carriage, establishing responsibilities and rights among the involved parties.

Why Does It Matter?

Proof of Contract: The B/L acts as evidence of a transport agreement between the carrier and the shipper, clearly outlining terms and legal relationships between the carrier, shipper, and consignee.

Delivery Authorization: The carrier only delivers goods to the first party who presents a valid B/L issued at the port of loading. Therefore, it is an essential document in international trade transactions.

Ownership Confirmation: The B/L confirms ownership of the goods and can be used as a document for pledging, sale, or transfer.

As businesses expand globally, understanding trade documents like the B/L is crucial for enhancing operational efficiency and avoiding costly errors.

Always verify the details on the B/L - mistakes or misunderstand can lead to delays, penalties, or disputes.