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Bill of Lading Fundamentals

One document, two sides, three functions, sometimes even four. It comes in many flavors. The Bill of Lading is one of the most important documents in the supply chain. Avoid potentially big problems by becoming aware of the small print and the importance of the transaction documented on its face.

Everyone involved with liner maritime transportation should be intimately aware of the risks, terms, and responsibilities assumed as a party to an ocean shipment. This workshop presents an overview of the Bill of Lading, its functions, and offers a summary of the most common international rules and agreements covering its use.

This workshop features a lecture with a question and answer session — small groups allow for plenty of interaction.

Who should attend

Designed as an introduction to one of the basic documents used in international commerce. Recommended for entry-level staff or for those who wish to brush up on the fundamentals. Anyone engaged in transportation (carriers, importers, exporters, bankers, etc.) will benefit from this 3-hour session — we especially encourage attendance by professionals in functions not directly involved in creating Bills of Lading (e.g., accounting, procurement, operations, sales).

Workshop Content

Main Functions

  • Receipt
  • Contract for carriage
  • Transfer of title
  • Delivery without originals
  • Endorsement
  • Freight invoice

Parts of the Bill of Lading

  • Face
  • Header
  • Body
  • Footer

Freight Items & Practices

  • Freight prepaid & collect
  • Disclaimers & signature
  • Terms & conditions
  • Carriers' tariffs
  • Responsibilities
  • Himalaya clause

The Different Kinds

  • Clean vs. claused
  • Received for shipment vs. on board
  • Negotiable vs. non-negotiable
  • Straight vs. order vs. sea waybill
  • Port-to-port vs. multimodal vs. through
  • House vs. master
  • Liner vs. tramp

International Liability Conventions

  • US COGSA
  • Hague & Hague-Visby
  • Hamburg Rules

Upcoming dates

Register or ask questions

Katherina Baum
(786) 206-7759, ext. 300
khbaum@tivalco.com

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