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A Lost Bill of Lading document becomes necessary when the original bill of lading, which serves as the title document for cargo, has been lost, destroyed, or misplaced. This document is crucial in South African maritime trade as it provides the legal framework for obtaining a replacement document or securing cargo release without the original bill of lading. Under South African law, particularly the Sea Transport Documents Act 65 of 2000, specific procedures must be followed to protect all parties' interests. The document typically includes detailed shipment information, formal declarations regarding the loss, indemnification provisions, and security arrangements such as bank guarantees. It is designed to mitigate risks for carriers while enabling legitimate cargo owners to take delivery of their goods despite the lost document.

1. Letterhead and Date: Company letterhead of the applicant and current date

2. Addressee Details: Shipping line/carrier's full name and address

3. Subject Line: Clear identification as 'Application for Release of Cargo/Issuance of Replacement Bill of Lading'

4. Shipment Details: Essential details including vessel name, voyage number, bill of lading number, port of loading/discharge, and cargo description

5. Declaration of Loss: Formal statement declaring the loss of the original bill of lading and circumstances of loss if known

6. Cargo Status: Current status and location of the cargo

7. Indemnity Statement: Formal indemnification of the carrier against any claims arising from issuing a replacement

8. Security Confirmation: Details of the bank guarantee or letter of indemnity being provided

9. Request Statement: Formal request for the issuance of replacement bill of lading or delivery of cargo

10. Signature Block: Authorized signatory details and company stamp section