The sea freight document (Bill of Lading, B/L): freight contract, receipt of goods and document of title all in one — it embodies the right to the goods.
The bill of lading (B/L) is the central sea freight document: freight contract, receipt of goods and document of title all in one — it embodies the right to the goods.
The bill of lading exists as an original (negotiable, embodying the title to the goods) or as a sea waybill (non-negotiable). Whoever holds the original can dispose of the goods — it is handled correspondingly carefully.
Why this matters for your import.
The B/L governs the release of the goods at the destination port. If its transmission is delayed, the container stands — with the risk of standing charges.
How you'll come across the term.
The B/L governs the handover of the goods at the destination port. We keep an eye on it so that release and onward transport into Switzerland run smoothly.
Sending original documents too late or losing them. Without a valid B/L the carrier does not release the goods.