Bill of Lading: What is it and what information must it contain?

What is the bill of lading?

The bill of lading is the legal title that proves the existence of a transport contract between the shipper and the carrier. It details the conditions under which the shipment is carried out, providing legal security for both parties and ensuring proper execution and tracking of the transport.

What information must the bill of lading include?

Although it is not mandatory, either party may require its issuance and, once issued, it must contain a series of minimum mentions:

• Place and date of issue.

• Identification details of all parties: shipper, consignor, carrier and consignee.

• Place and date of receipt of the goods by the carrier.

• Place and, if applicable, expected delivery date of the goods.

• Nature, quantity, packaging and characteristics of the goods, including identification of dangerous goods if applicable.

• Agreed transport price, foreseeable expenses and indication of who bears the payment.

• Instructions for mandatory administrative procedures.

• Declaration of value or special interest in delivery, if agreed.

• Other optional mentions, such as insurance conditions, cash on delivery amounts or execution deadlines.

All this information must be kept for one year and is key to resolving any incident or claim.

What happens if it is missing or irregular?

The transport contract is consensual, so the absence or irregularity of the bill of lading does not invalidate it. However, the parties are liable for any expenses and damages resulting from incorrect or incomplete information. If a party refuses to issue it when requested, the other party may consider the contract cancelled.

Can the bill of lading be issued electronically?

Yes. Thanks to digitalisation, the electronic bill of lading (e-CMR) is equivalent to the traditional paper version, with the same legal validity and evidential value, provided that a reliable electronic signature is used. This digital version facilitates document management, real-time tracking and the reduction of paper procedures.