Document background
The Hitchment Bill of Lading is a specialized transport document used in maritime shipping operations where cargo requires transshipment between vessels during its journey. This document type is particularly relevant in the UAE's maritime sector, where major ports like Jebel Ali serve as significant transshipment hubs. It is governed by UAE Federal Law No. 26 of 1981 (Maritime Commercial Law) and incorporates elements of international maritime conventions. The document serves multiple functions: it acts as a receipt for goods, evidences the contract of carriage, and serves as a document of title. It specifically addresses the complex liability and operational aspects of cargo transfer between vessels, making it essential for international trade routes requiring intermediate cargo transfers. The Hitchment Bill of Lading includes detailed information about all carriers involved, transshipment arrangements, and specific provisions for liability during the entire journey, particularly during the critical transshipment phase.
