In international commerce, the ocean bill of lading serves as the critical transport contract between carriers and shippers. This document plays a pivotal role in goods transportation. Below is a comprehensive 15-point guide to ensure accurate completion of every section.
1. Shipper Information
The shipper, typically the consignor, is the party that contracts with the carrier. Under letter of credit payments, the shipper is usually the credit beneficiary, while in collection transactions, it's the collection principal. Regulations permit transport documents to list third parties as shippers.
2. Consignee Details
Consignee information must align with contract and letter of credit terms, with three primary formats:
- Named consignee: Specific company designation requiring authorized pickup
- Bearer form: Left blank or marked "To Bearer" for unrestricted claim
- Order form: Either blank endorsement (requires shipper's endorsement) or named order (must specify beneficiary)
Letters of credit most commonly use order bills.
3. Notify Party
This field identifies the consignee's agent who must receive arrival notifications, following exact letter of credit specifications.
4. Vessel Particulars
Record the carrying vessel's name and voyage number precisely.
5. Port of Loading
Designate the actual loading port. If credits state "Chinese ports," specify the exact location.
6. Discharge Port
List the destination port per credit terms. For multiple options, select one. Special declarations apply for "In Transit to" notations.
7. Shipping Marks
Include marks as specified in credits, or per commercial agreements if unregulated.
8. Package Details
State the number and type of packages, marking bulk shipments as "In Bulk."
9. Goods Description
Maintain absolute consistency with credit and other documents, using generic terms for multiple items.
10. Weight & Volume
Record total gross weight (kilograms) and volume (cubic meters).
11. Freight Terms
Designate payment responsibility ("Freight Prepaid" or "Freight Collect") as per credit conditions.
12. Issuance Details
Complete at the loading port with dates conforming to credit shipment periods.
13. Carrier Authentication
Requires signature by the carrier or authorized agent for validity.
14. Original Copies
Indicate the number of original bills as specified in credits.
15. B/L Reference Number
The carrier's unique tracking identifier, typically positioned top-right.
While the reverse side contains standard transport terms (typically non-negotiable carrier terms), proper bill completion remains the shipper's most critical responsibility in maritime transport documentation.
