Bills of Lading

A bill of lading (B/L) is a legal document issued by a carrier, typically a shipping or transportation company, that serves as proof of the contract of carriage and receipt of goods. It acts as a document of title, providing the details of the shipment, such as the name of the shipper and the consignee, the point of origin and destination, the type and quantity of goods being shipped, the date of shipment, and the terms and conditions of the transportation agreement.

In essence, a bill of lading serves as a receipt for the goods being transported and a contract between the shipper and the carrier. It also serves as evidence of ownership of the goods, and may be used to obtain payment or financing for the shipment. Bills of lading are commonly used in international trade, especially for goods transported by sea, but they may also be used for goods transported by air, rail, or road.