What information does an ocean bill of lading provide?

In maritime law, an ocean bill of lading serves several critical functions and provides essential information regarding a shipment.12

Key Functions and Information

• Acknowledgment of Receipt: It acts as a receipt confirming that the carrier has received the goods for shipment, either "shipped on board" or "received for shipment" alongside the vessel.12
• Contractual Evidence: It serves as the contract of carriage or evidence thereof, detailing the terms agreed upon between the carrier and the consignor for transporting goods to their destination.12
• Shipment Details: It typically specifies the quantity, weight, and measurements of the goods. It often includes a statement that the items were received in apparent good order and condition.1
• Control and Title: When negotiable, the document controls possession of the goods. It is an indispensable tool for financing trade, as transferring the bill of lading is equivalent to delivering the goods themselves.12

By presenting this document, the consignee can demand delivery of the cargo at the port of destination, as the carrier is generally obligated to release the goods only to the holder of a duly negotiated bill.12