Document background
The Original Bill of Lading is a fundamental document in maritime transport and international trade, governed in this context by Danish law and relevant international conventions. It is used whenever goods are transported by sea, particularly in international trade transactions where formal documentation of ownership and transfer of title is required. The document must comply with the Danish Merchant Shipping Act (Søloven) and incorporate provisions from the Hague-Visby Rules. It includes critical information such as the identity of the carrier, shipper, and consignee; detailed description of the goods; vessel information; and terms of carriage. This document is especially important in trade finance transactions, as banks often require an Original Bill of Lading as collateral for documentary credit operations. Multiple originals are typically issued, with one original being surrendered to release the goods at destination.
