Essential Front Details on the Ocean Bill of Lading:
- Goods Information: Record the name, logo, count of packages or pieces, weight or volume, and details if hazardous.
- Carrier Identity: Include the carrier’s name and primary business location.
- Vessel Information: Specify the ship’s name.
- Shipper and Consignee: List the names of the shipper and consignee.
- Ports and Dates: Note the ports of loading and discharge, the acceptance date, and places for multimodal shipments.
- Bill of Lading Specifics: Mention the date, issuance place, and number of bill copies.
- Payment Details: Detail the shipping charge payments.
- Carrier Representative: Identify the carrier or its agent.
Key Terms on the Bill’s Reverse Side:
- Clauses: From the definition to paramount, carrier’s responsibility, and liability limitation clauses, each one is crucial.
- Cargo Handling: Packing and mark clause, flora and deck clauses, and dangerous goods clause.
- Financial Terms: Lien clause and notice of claims, including statute of limitations.
Sea Waybill Simplification:
A sea waybill is for verifying the contract of carriage by sea, ensuring delivery to the specified consignee without the transferability feature of a traditional bill of lading.
Differences Between Ocean Bill of Lading and Sea Waybill:
- Transferability: The ocean bill of lading can be endorsed; the sea waybill cannot.
- Consignee Specifications: Both documents specify the consignee but differ in transfer methods.
- Document Types: The ocean bill of lading comes in full and simplified forms, while the sea waybill is always simplified.
Understanding these distinctions and filling out the documentation properly ensures a streamlined shipping process. Whether it’s an ocean bill or a sea waybill, correct completion is key to a successful cargo journey.