Trade documents shouldn't be a surprise at the port. Here's a plain-language guide to the two documents that decide how your cargo gets released — and everything else we file on your behalf.
A title document, not just a receipt. Whoever holds the original, signed B/L holds the right to claim the cargo — which makes it transferable, and the standard choice whenever ownership might change hands before the goods arrive.
A receipt and contract of carriage, not a title document. The named consignee simply proves their identity at destination — no original paper to courier ahead of the vessel, no risk of cargo outrunning its own documents.
The value declaration that customs uses to assess duty — matched line for line against the order before it's filed.
Weights, dimensions and carton counts, itemised so the receiving port and your warehouse are working from the same numbers.
Confirms where the goods were manufactured — required for preferential duty treatment under most trade agreements.
The formal notice to customs authorities that the shipment is leaving the country of origin, filed ahead of departure.
Proof of cargo cover for the voyage — arranged whenever the order calls for it, not assumed by default.
The explanations above are general background so you know what you're signing, not the binding terms themselves. The official Bill of Lading or Sea Waybill — with the exact carrier terms, liability limits and jurisdiction for your shipment — is issued directly with every booking confirmation. If you need a copy ahead of booking, ask us and we'll send it over.