Document background
The Commercial Bill of Lading is a fundamental document in maritime trade, particularly crucial for shipments passing through Hong Kong, one of the world's busiest port cities. This document is required whenever goods are transported by sea and ownership needs to be transferable through document endorsement. The Bill of Lading must comply with Hong Kong's legal framework, including the Bills of Lading and Analogous Shipping Documents Ordinance and the Hague-Visby Rules. It contains essential information such as the identity of the carrier, shipper, and consignee; description of goods; vessel details; and terms of carriage. The document is particularly important for international trade finance, as banks often require an original Bill of Lading as collateral for letter of credit transactions.
