Document background
The Liner Bill of Lading is a fundamental document in maritime trade, used specifically for cargo transported on regular shipping routes with scheduled vessels. This document, governed by South African law, serves multiple crucial functions: it acts as a receipt confirming the carrier's possession of goods, provides evidence of the contract of carriage, and serves as a document of title enabling cargo ownership transfer. Under South African jurisdiction, it must comply with the Carriage of Goods by Sea Act 1 of 1986 and the Sea Transport Documents Act 65 of 2000, which incorporate international maritime conventions while adding local regulatory requirements. The document is essential for international trade transactions, particularly when dealing with letters of credit, customs clearance, and cargo insurance.
