Document background
The General Bill of Lading is a fundamental document in international trade and shipping, essential for documenting the receipt and transportation of goods. Under Swiss jurisdiction, this document combines elements of both domestic law (particularly the Swiss Code of Obligations) and international maritime conventions. The General Bill of Lading serves multiple purposes: it acts as a receipt confirming the carrier's acceptance of goods, provides evidence of the contract of carriage, and functions as a document of title enabling the transfer of ownership. It is particularly important in international trade finance, where it can be used as collateral for letters of credit or other financing arrangements. The document must comply with both Swiss federal requirements and international shipping standards, making it a crucial instrument in global commerce while maintaining its validity under Swiss law.
