How does a shipped-on-board bill of lading differ from a received-for-shipment bill of lading?

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In the context of the carriage of goods, the primary difference between these two types of bill of lading lies in the confirmation of the goods' status regarding the vessel.1

  • Shipped-on-board bill of lading: This document certifies that the goods have been physically loaded onto the ship.1
  • Received-for-shipment bill of lading: This document indicates that the goods have been received by the carrier, typically alongside the ship, but it does not confirm that they have been loaded.1

Because a received-for-shipment bill of lading does not prove the specific fact or date of loading, it is considered less valuable than a shipped-on-board bill of lading. Both documents serve as a receipt for goods and incorporate the terms of the contract for transportation to the destination.1