(a) What is a bill of lading? (b) State six contents of a bill of lading. (c) Distinguish between a clean bill of lading a-a foul bill of lading

Answer Details

(a) What is a bill of lading?

A bill of lading is a document issued by a shipping company (or its agent) to the exporter acknowledging that the goods described in it have been received on board a named ship for carriage to a stated destination. It serves three purposes: it is a receipt for the goods shipped, evidence of the contract of carriage, and a document of title to the goods, so that whoever holds it can claim the goods at the port of destination.

(b) Six contents of a bill of lading

1. Name of the shipping company and the name of the ship.
2. Name of the shipper (exporter) and the consignee.
3. Description of the goods, including quantity, weight and marks.
4. Port of loading and port of destination.
5. Amount of freight charges and whether paid or payable.
6. Date of shipment and signature of the ship's master or agent.

(c) Clean bill of lading versus foul bill of lading