Bill of lading

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Bill of lading is given in exchange of mates receipt. It performs fallowing functions-

  • It is a receipt  for the cargo signed by the master of agent on behalf of the ship owner.
  • It is a document of title to the cargo. It is a negotiable document and the person having this document is the owner of the cargo
  • It can be sold just by signing and transferring the BILL OF LADING in the name of the new buyer.
  • It is evidence of a contract between shipowner and shipper.
  • The information in the bill of lading includes – 
  • name and address of shipper.
  • destination port.
  • loading port.
  • description of cargo (weight, volume)
  • name of the vessel .
  • date of loading.
  • Back side of the document has terms and conditions of carriage.
  • The bill of lading contains an accurate description of the condition of cargo.
  • Bill of lading contains terms like – ”said to contain” ,  ”said to weight ”.
  • Shippers try to get a bill without any clauses, this is a fraudulent practice as shippers letter has no legal standing  and the shipowner will not be able to escape his liability for cargo claims.