Document background
The Standard Bill of Lading Form is a fundamental document in international trade and shipping operations, essential for documenting the receipt and movement of goods across borders. This document, governed by Swiss law and international conventions, is required whenever goods are transported by sea or in multimodal transportation involving sea carriage. The Bill of Lading must comply with the Swiss Code of Obligations, Swiss Maritime Navigation Act, and international conventions such as the Hague-Visby Rules. It contains crucial information including shipper and consignee details, cargo description, vessel information, and terms of carriage. The document's triple function as a receipt, contract of carriage, and document of title makes it essential for international trade transactions, especially when dealing with documentary credits or letter of credit operations.
