A fundamental shipping document that serves three main functions: a receipt for the cargo, a contract of carriage, and a document of title. It is issued by the carrier or their agent to the shipper once goods are loaded aboard the vessel. Whoever holds the original document legally owns the cargo and can claim it at the destination port.
Heard on the job
We can't release the containers until the consignee presents the original bill of lading.
Insider tip
A clean bill of lading means the cargo was received in good condition; a claused or foul bill means the carrier noted damage or shortages upon loading.
Also heard as
- B/L
- BoL