PL: Konosament | DE: Konnossement
Definition
A Bill of Lading (B/L) is the most important document in maritime transport, issued by the carrier (shipowner or agent) confirming receipt of goods for carriage by sea. It serves three key functions: proof of the contract of carriage, receipt for goods received by the carrier, and document of title (entitling the holder to collect goods at the destination port).
The B/L contains: shipper, consignee, and notify party details, goods description (name, quantity, weight, marks), port of loading and destination, vessel name, loading date, and freight terms (prepaid/collect). There are straight, order, and bearer bills of lading.
In the customs context, the B/L is required as an accompanying document to the customs declaration for sea imports. It serves to confirm the transport route, identify transaction parties, and verify data consistency with the commercial invoice.
The B/L contains: shipper, consignee, and notify party details, goods description (name, quantity, weight, marks), port of loading and destination, vessel name, loading date, and freight terms (prepaid/collect). There are straight, order, and bearer bills of lading.
In the customs context, the B/L is required as an accompanying document to the customs declaration for sea imports. It serves to confirm the transport route, identify transaction parties, and verify data consistency with the commercial invoice.