Document background
The Conditional Bill of Sale is a crucial document in German commercial practice, particularly utilized in situations where valuable goods are sold with payment in installments. This document type, governed by German law and specifically regulated under the German Civil Code (BGB), provides security for sellers while allowing buyers to take possession and use of goods before completing payment. The agreement includes essential details about the goods, payment terms, and conditions for title transfer, with the distinctive feature of Eigentumsvorbehalt (retention of title) protecting the seller's interests. The document is particularly relevant in both business-to-business and business-to-consumer contexts, requiring careful consideration of both civil and commercial law provisions. When implementing a Conditional Bill of Sale, parties must ensure compliance with German consumer protection laws if applicable, while maintaining clear terms for ownership transfer, maintenance obligations, and default remedies.
