In the world of maritime shipping, both the Bill of Lading (BL) and the Sea Waybill (WB) are essential documents. Each serves specific purposes and includes important details for all parties involved in shipping operations. But what is the difference between these two documents? And how do you choose the one that best suits your needs? The following article will explain the differences between a Bill of Lading and a Sea Waybill and help you determine the most appropriate.

What is a Bill of Lading (BL)?

A bill of lading is a document used to record the shipping and transportation process. It can be either a negotiable document representing ownership of the goods or a non-negotiable document acting more like a receipt.

A Bill of Lading specifies the following:

Shipping Details: Includes information about the shipper, consignee, and carrier.
Cargo Details: Provides a precise description of the shipped goods, including quantity, weight, and other relevant details.
Terms of Transport: Outlines the agreed terms and conditions of transportation between the shipper and the carrier.

The Functions of a Bill of Lading:

Evidence of the contract of carriage.
Receipt of goods.
Document of Title to the Goods.
A negotiable instrument accepted by banking institutions.

Sea Waybill (WB)

The Sea Waybill is a simple, non-negotiable transport document that can be used as an alternative to the Bill of Lading. It is suitable for trades that require more speed and flexibility. Additionally, a Sea Waybill does not control the ownership or right to possess the goods. The consignee can collect the shipment once it arrives, clear it through customs, and pay the shipping costs to the carrier.

The Functions of a Sea Waybill:

Receipt of goods.
Evidence of the contract of carriage.

What is the Difference Between a BL and a WB?

Bill of Lading (BL): A negotiable document that represents ownership of the goods and is used by the consignee to receive the goods from the carrier upon arrival. It can be transferred to others and shows who owns the goods. It is used by the consignee to collect the goods from the carrier when they arrive.
Sea Waybill (WB): A non-negotiable document that only serves as proof of the transport contract. It is used exclusively to document the transportation process. It is suitable for transporting goods between a company's branches or sister companies, where there is no need to transfer ownership of the goods.

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