Bill of Lading
B/LA carrier-issued ocean transport document that evidences receipt, the contract of carriage and, in negotiable form, title to goods.
Professional definition
Issued by an ocean carrier, master or NVOCC and used by shippers, consignees, banks and customs. It identifies parties, goods, routing, freight terms and originals issued. A negotiable original can control delivery, while a sea waybill cannot.
Example
A carrier issues an original B/L after loading; the consignee presents or surrenders it under the agreed release process.
Where it is used
Ocean carriage, documentary trade, cargo release and customs evidence.
Common mistakes and things to remember
Do not confuse a negotiable original B/L with a sea waybill or assume every B/L transfers ownership automatically.
Source
Use the linked authority and applicable national guidance for current requirements.