If you import by sea, you will encounter the bill of lading (often shortened to B/L). It is one of the most important documents in international trade — here is what you need to know.
Three roles in one document
- Receipt: Proof the carrier received your goods in the stated condition.
- Contract: Evidence of the agreement to carry the goods.
- Title: A document of ownership that can be used to claim the cargo.
Original vs telex release
An original bill of lading must be physically presented to release the goods. A telex release (or express release) lets you collect cargo without the physical document, which speeds things up when paperwork is in order.
Air freight equivalent
For air shipments, the equivalent document is the airway bill (AWB). Unlike a bill of lading, it is not a document of title.
Why accuracy matters
Errors on a bill of lading — wrong consignee, quantity or description — can delay release and clearance. Always review the draft B/L before it is finalised.
Our team prepares and checks shipping documents as part of every freight job, so nothing holds up your cargo. Learn more about how we manage documentation for you.