Document background
The Bill of Lading and Shipping Bill is a fundamental document in maritime trade and shipping operations within Nigerian jurisdiction. It serves multiple critical functions: as evidence of receipt of goods by the carrier, proof of contract of carriage, and a transferable document of title. This document is essential when shipping goods to, from, or through Nigerian ports, and must comply with the Nigerian Merchant Shipping Act 2007, Nigerian Ports Authority regulations, and international maritime conventions. It contains detailed information about the shipped goods, involved parties, vessel details, and terms of carriage. The document is particularly important for international trade transactions involving Nigerian entities, as it facilitates customs clearance, enables transfer of ownership, and serves as a basis for letter of credit transactions.
