What information must be included in a bill of lading (2024)

FAQs

What information must be included in a bill of lading? ›

The bill of lading must include the name and address of the shipper, the name and address of the consignee, a description of the goods being shipped, the quantity of the goods, the method of transportation, and the date of shipment.

A bill of lading will typically include the names and addresses of the shipper (consignor) and the receiver (consignee) as well as the shipment date, quantity, exact weight, value, and freight classification.

Bill of lading is the legal document that details the type, quantity and ownership of the goods as well as their destination. It also serves as a receipt when the goods arrive at their destination. The waybill is the invoice that also accompanies the goods from shipper to final destination.

A bill of lading is a document that lists the goods being transported, the destination, the name of the shipper and consignee, and other important information. A bill of lading is used as a receipt of goods, a contract between the shipper and carrier, and a document of title.

The bill of lading must include the name and address of the shipper, the name and address of the consignee, a description of the goods being shipped, the quantity of the goods, the method of transportation, and the date of shipment.

The correct HS code for your goods will be required for use in legal and commercial documents when undertaking trade. Some examples of use are in sales contracts, bills of lading, letters of credit, and certificates of origin.

In most cases, the shipper (seller) supplies and pays for the BOL, as it acts as a receipt and title to the goods. But if specific arrangements exist between the parties, such as a free on board (FOB) contract, the buyer may be responsible for obtaining and paying for the BOL.

A bill of lading is evidence of a contract between you, the owner of the goods, and the carrier stating what goods you're shipping, where the shipment is coming from and where it's headed. It also serves as a receipt issued by the carrier once your shipment is picked up.

A BOL is required for all freight shipments, regardless of transportation method or piece count, and must contain specific information to be considered legally binding.

What happens if there is no bill of lading? ›

Without the Original Bill of Lading, the release of your cargo will be put on hold until a new Bill of Lading is presented, or we get the confirmation from the shipper to release the cargo without a Bill of Lading.

The bill of lading is typically given to the carrier or driver when it's picked up and is also attached to the freight. Shippers should keep a signed copy of the bill of lading after the carriers receive the shipment for transport. It is considered proof of carrier liability, in case of damage or loss of the freight.

So a bill of lading must be transferable, and serves three main functions: It is a conclusive receipt, i.e. an acknowledgement that the goods have been loaded; It contains or evidences the terms of the contract of carriage; and. It serves as a document of title to the goods, subject to the nemo dat rule.

In accepting this Bill of Lading, the Merchant agrees to be bound by all provisions, exceptions, terms and conditions on the face and back hereof, whether written, typed, stamped or printed, as fully as if signed by the Merchant, notwithstanding any contrary custom or privilege, and unless otherwise specifically agreed ...

Shipping bill contains particulars of the goods being exported, the name of the vessel, the port at which goods are to be discharged, country of final destination, exporter's name and address, and so on. Exporter prepares the shipping bill for obtaining customs clearance.