BILL OF LADING

It is a major document if the goods are dispatched by sea.
The document represents:
1. A formal receipt for the goods
2. The evidence of the contract of carriage of the goods between the shipper of the goods and the shipping company
3. The document of title to the goods
A bill of lading may include the following details:
 Description of the goods in general terms not inconsistent with that in the letter of credit
 Identifying marks and numbers, if any
 The name of the carrying vessel
 Evidence that the goods have been loaded on board
 The ports of shipment and discharge

 The names of shipper, consignee (if not made out "to order"), and name and address of the "notifies" party if any
 Whether freight has been paid in advance or is payable at destination
 The number of original bills of lading issued
 The date of issue
 The departure date of carrying vessel or aircraft