Homepage Fill Out Your Sample Ocean Bill Of Lading Form
Article Structure

The Sample Ocean Bill of Lading form is a critical document used in international shipping, capturing essential details about the shipment process. Key information includes the exporter’s name and address, booking and document numbers, as well as freight charges related to the shipment. Designating both the consignee and the forwarding agent, this form ensures that all parties know where the goods are headed. It outlines specifics such as the point of origin and domestic routing instructions, along with the roles of pre-carriers and exporting carriers. Details regarding ports of loading and unloading are vital for accurate delivery. Additionally, it requires a description of the commodities being shipped, which includes their gross weight and packaging specifics. Important legal notes remind shippers about compliance with U.S. Export Administration Regulations and highlight that diversion of the goods contrary to U.S. law is prohibited. The form concludes with essential declarations regarding the condition of received goods and the responsibilities of the carrier, ensuring transparency and accountability throughout the shipping process.

Sample Ocean Bill Of Lading Example

Ocean Bill of Lading

Exporter (Name and address including ZIP code)

 

Document Number

 

Booking Number

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Export References

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Consigned To

 

 

 

 

Forwarding Agent (Name and address)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Notify Party

 

 

 

 

Point (State) of Origin or FTZ Number

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Domestic Routing/Export Instructions

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pre-Carriage By

 

 

 

Place of Receipt By Pre-Carrier

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Exporting Carrier

 

 

 

Port of Loading/Export

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Foreign Port of Unloading

 

 

 

Place of Delivery By On-Carrier

Type of Move

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Marks and Numbers

 

Number of

 

 

Description of Commodities in Schedule B Detail

Gross Weight (Kilos)

Measurement

 

 

Packages

 

 

 

 

 

 

There are:

pages, including attachments to this Ocean Bill of Lading

These commodities, technology or software were exported from the United States in accordance with the Export Administration Regulations. Diversion contrary to U.S. law prohibited.

Carrier has a policy against payment solicitation, or receipt of any rebate, directly or indirectly, which would be unlawful under the United States Shipping Act, 1984 as amended.

FREIGHT RATES, CHARGES, WEIGHTS AND/OR MEASUREMENTS

SUBJECT TO CORRECTION

PREPAID

COLLECT

GRAND TOTAL

Received by Carrier for shipment by ocean vessel between port of loading and port of discharge, and for arrangement or procurement of pre-carriage from place of receipt and on- carriage to place of delivery, where stated above, the goods as specified above in apparent good order and condition unless otherwise stated. The goods to be delivered at the above mentioned port of discharge or place of delivery, whichever is applicable.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF

 

original Bills of Lading have been signed, not otherwise

 

 

stated above, one of which being accomplished the others

 

 

 

 

shall be void.

DATED AT

BY

Agent for the Carrier

Mo.

Day

Year

B/L NO.

Form Characteristics

Fact Name Description
Exporter Information The form requires the exporter's name and address, including ZIP code.
Document Number A unique document number is assigned to track the shipment.
Carrier Policies The carrier prohibits payment solicitation or rebate receipt as per the United States Shipping Act, 1984.
Compliance Statement It states that commodities exported were in compliance with Export Administration Regulations.
Freight Charges Freight rates and charges may be corrected if necessary.
Port and Delivery Details The form captures details on the port of loading, foreign port of unloading, and place of delivery.

Guidelines on Utilizing Sample Ocean Bill Of Lading

To complete the Sample Ocean Bill of Lading form accurately, it's crucial to provide specific information related to the shipment. Carefully entering details ensures smooth processing and compliance with regulatory requirements.

  1. Enter the exporter’s name and address, including the ZIP code.
  2. Fill in the document number.
  3. Input the booking number.
  4. Provide any relevant export references.
  5. List the name and address of the consigned party.
  6. Include information for the forwarding agent, if applicable.
  7. Indicate the notify party.
  8. Specify the state of origin or FTZ number.
  9. Detail any domestic routing or export instructions.
  10. Specify the mode of transport in the pre-carriage by field.
  11. Enter the place of receipt by and pre-carrier.
  12. Indicate the exporting carrier.
  13. Provide the port of loading/export.
  14. List the foreign port of unloading.
  15. Enter the place of delivery by and on-carrier.
  16. Specify the type of move.
  17. Provide marks and numbers identifiable on the shipment.
  18. Input the number of packages.
  19. Describe the commodities in the Schedule B.
  20. Record the gross weight in kilos.
  21. Provide the measurements, if necessary.

Finally, confirm the total pages and any attachments referenced in the form. Ensure all fields are filled in completely to comply with applicable laws and regulations.

What You Should Know About This Form

What is an Ocean Bill of Lading?

An Ocean Bill of Lading is a key document in international shipping. It serves as a receipt issued by the carrier once the goods are loaded onto the vessel. Additionally, it acts as a contract between the shipper and the carrier, outlining the terms of transportation. This document provides essential details about the shipment, including the exporter’s information, the consignee, and specifics about the cargo itself.

What information is required on the Ocean Bill of Lading?

The Ocean Bill of Lading must include crucial information such as the name and address of the exporter, document and booking numbers, and references regarding the shipment. It also contains details about the forwarding agent, the point of origin, port of loading, and foreign port of unloading. Descriptions of the commodities being shipped, including their gross weight and measurements, are essential to this document as well.

How is the freight charge calculated on the Ocean Bill of Lading?

Freight charges are typically based on the weight and volume of the shipment. The Ocean Bill of Lading indicates whether charges are prepaid or collect. It is important to note that these rates and charges may be subject to correction, ensuring accurate billing according to the actual shipment details.

What are the responsibilities of the carrier as noted in the Ocean Bill of Lading?

The carrier is responsible for receiving the shipment in good order, as stated, and for transporting the cargo from the port of loading to the designated port of discharge or place of delivery. The carrier also commits to arranging the necessary pre-carriage and on-carriage, when applicable. The document outlines that the goods must be delivered as specified unless otherwise indicated.

What does “diversion contrary to U.S. law prohibited” mean?

This statement emphasizes that the shipment being exported must comply with the Export Administration Regulations. It signifies that any unauthorized diversion or change in the destination of the goods is illegal under U.S. law. This restriction is implemented to ensure that exports are controlled and monitored effectively.

Can the Ocean Bill of Lading be voided, and under what circumstances?

The original Ocean Bills of Lading can be rendered void once one original is accomplished, as long as there are no other stipulations provided. It is critical to follow this procedure to prevent any ambiguity regarding ownership or responsibility for the goods transported. As such, careful management of the document is necessary during the shipping process.

Common mistakes

Completing the Sample Ocean Bill of Lading form requires careful attention to detail. Several common mistakes can lead to complications in the shipping process. Understanding these errors can help ensure a smoother transaction.

One frequent mistake is failing to provide complete and accurate information in the Exporter section. It is critical to include the full name and address, including the ZIP code. Omitting details or using abbreviations can create delays or misunderstandings during shipment.

Another error occurs with the Document Number and Booking Number sections. These numbers must be accurate and match supporting documents. Incorrect entries can result in issues with tracking the shipment and may cause customs delays.

Confusion often arises in the Consigned To and Forwarding Agent sections. Many individuals mistakenly enter similar or overlapping information, making it unclear who the final recipient or forwarding agent is. Clarity in these fields is essential for ensuring proper delivery.

In the Notify Party Point section, neglecting to specify the relevant state or Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) number can lead to complications. This information aids in notification processes and ensures compliance with regulations.

Details related to the Port of Loading and Foreign Port of Unloading are also critical. A common mistake is listing the wrong ports, which can disrupt the shipping timeline and increase costs. Proper research should be conducted to confirm these locations.

Additionally, inaccuracies in the description of commodities can lead to regulatory problems. Filling out the Description of Commodities in Schedule B section requires specificity. Misclassifying goods may result in fines or delays from customs authorities.

When it comes to Gross Weight and Measurement, people frequently misuse units of measurement. Confirming that the weight is listed in kilos and the measurements are correct prevents potential billing disputes and shipping issues.

People often overlook the section on the number of packages. Failure to match this with the number of weight descriptions can cause discrepancies during transit. Consistency in these details is vital for accurate tracking and delivery.

Lastly, many individuals fail to sign and date the form appropriately. Signing is not just a formality; it confirms that the information provided is complete and correct. Neglecting this step can render the Bill of Lading void.

A careful review of each section can help prevent these mistakes and facilitate a smoother shipping process. Paying attention to details not only helps the sender but also supports the shipping carrier in efficiently handling the shipment.

Documents used along the form

The Sample Ocean Bill of Lading is a crucial document used in shipping goods by sea. However, it is often accompanied by other documents that play essential roles in the shipping and customs processes. Below are some common forms you might encounter alongside the Bill of Lading.

  • Commercial Invoice: This document details the transaction between the buyer and seller. It includes information about the products, their prices, and terms of sale. Customs authorities often use it to determine the value of the goods being imported.
  • Packing List: A packing list outlines the contents of each package in a shipment. It includes details such as quantity, description, and weight. This helps with verification during shipping and customs inspections.
  • Certificate of Origin: This certificate indicates the country where the goods were manufactured. It may be required for customs clearance, especially for products subject to tariffs or trade agreements.
  • Export License: This is an authorization required for specific products before they can be exported. It ensures compliance with government regulations regarding the export of certain goods.
  • Arrival Notice: Upon arrival of the shipment at the destination port, the carrier sends this notice to the consignee. It informs them about the arrival date and how to retrieve the cargo.
  • Insurance Certificate: This document provides proof of insurance for the shipped goods. It details coverage and helps mitigate risks associated with loss or damage during transit.

Understanding these related documents can enhance clarity and efficiency in managing shipments. Each has its own vital function, ensuring that goods move smoothly from one location to another while complying with regulations.

Similar forms

The Sample Ocean Bill of Lading is a crucial document in maritime shipping, specifically designed for the transportation of goods by sea. Several other documents serve similar purposes in facilitating shipping and logistics. Below are four of those documents, along with their similarities to the Ocean Bill of Lading.

  • Air Waybill: The Air Waybill operates in air freight shipping and serves as a receipt for goods, similar to the Ocean Bill of Lading. Both documents confirm the acceptance of cargo by the carrier and outline the terms and conditions under which the shipment will be carried. Each document also provides essential details about the consignor, consignee, and the nature of the goods being transported.
  • Freight Forwarder’s Bill of Lading: This document is issued by a freight forwarder instead of a shipping line. Just like the Ocean Bill of Lading, it provides evidence of the contract of carriage and details about the goods. It can also be negotiable, meaning that it may transfer ownership of the goods in transit, similar to the rights granted through an Ocean Bill of Lading.
  • Railroad Bill of Lading: This document is utilized in rail freight transport. Like the Ocean Bill of Lading, it serves as a receipt for the goods and details the shipper, consignee, and a description of the cargo. Both documents facilitate a formal contract between the carrier and the shipper, ensuring the safe passage of goods.
  • Master Bill of Lading: Issued by a shipping line, the Master Bill of Lading is used in ocean shipping to signify a contract for multiple cargo shipments. This document mirrors the Ocean Bill of Lading in terms of confirming the receipt and outlining conditions for transportation. Both documents provide critical information about the parties involved and specifics of the cargo being transported.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Sample Ocean Bill of Lading form, follow these guidelines to ensure accuracy and compliance:

  • Do provide complete and accurate information for the exporter, including their name, address, and ZIP code.
  • Do clearly list the details of the commodities being shipped, including their description, weight, and measurement.
  • Don’t leave any field blank unless it is specifically marked as optional. Missing information can delay the shipping process.
  • Don’t ignore the regulations regarding exports to ensure compliance with the Export Administration Regulations.

By adhering to these points, you will help facilitate smoother processing of your shipment and avoid potential legal issues.

Misconceptions

When it comes to the Sample Ocean Bill of Lading, many people harbor misconceptions that might cloud their understanding of this important shipping document. Here are seven common misunderstandings, along with clarifications.

  1. It guarantees delivery of the goods. Many assume the Ocean Bill of Lading acts as a guarantee that their goods will arrive at the destination. In reality, it serves primarily as a receipt and documentation of the terms concerning how the goods will be transported. Delivery can still be affected by numerous factors, including customs regulations and logistical issues.
  2. It is the same as an invoice. Some people think that the Ocean Bill of Lading functions like an invoice. While it contains information about the shipment, it does not include pricing details or payment terms. An invoice serves a different purpose in the commercial transaction.
  3. All parties must sign it for it to be valid. It’s a common belief that all involved parties must sign the Ocean Bill of Lading. In fact, the document is valid even if only the carrier and the shipper sign it. The essential aspect is that the carrier acknowledges receipt of the goods.
  4. It only applies to international shipments. Some individuals believe that the Ocean Bill of Lading is exclusively for international trade. This isn't true; it can also apply to domestic shipping if goods are transported via ocean routes. Hence, its utility extends beyond borders.
  5. It cannot be amended once issued. There is a misconception that changes to the Ocean Bill of Lading cannot occur once the document is issued. While amendments can be complex and might require approval from all parties, they can indeed be made, particularly if there is a valid reason or mutual agreement.
  6. It is simply a legal formality. Many people think the Ocean Bill of Lading is just a formality that offers no real significance. However, it serves critical legal functions — it acts as a contract for the carriage of goods and can be essential in resolving disputes between parties.
  7. Only one copy is needed. A common mix-up is the belief that a single copy of the Ocean Bill of Lading suffices for all parties involved. In actuality, multiple copies may be issued for different stakeholders (like the shipper, consignee, and carrier) to maintain clarity and documentation throughout the shipping process.

Understanding these key points can help clarify the role and importance of the Ocean Bill of Lading in international shipping. By addressing misconceptions, parties can engage in smooth transactions and better protect their interests.

Key takeaways

When filling out and using the Sample Ocean Bill of Lading form, it's essential to keep several key points in mind for a smooth shipping process.

  • Accurate Information: Always provide precise details for the exporter, consignee, and forwarding agent. This ensures the shipment is sent to the right place without delays.
  • Document Number and Booking Number: These numbers are crucial for tracking your shipment. Make sure they are clearly specified.
  • Export References: Include any necessary references relevant to the shipment. This documentation can help in expediting processes with customs.
  • Consigned To: Clearly list the name and address of the ultimate receiver of the goods. This can help prevent misdelivery.
  • Port of Loading and Unloading: Specify the ports involved accurately. Errors can lead to significant shipping complications.
  • Gross Weight and Measurement: Enter the total gross weight and dimensions of the shipment. This information may affect freight costs and compliance with regulations.
  • Additional Pages: Be aware of the total number of pages and attachments attached to the Bill of Lading for reference. This is important for documentation integrity.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Remember that commodities exported must comply with U.S. regulations. Understand the implications of exporting any technology or software.

Following these guidelines ensures the proper handling of the Ocean Bill of Lading and contributes to a successful export process.