Document background
The Memo Bill of Lading is a fundamental document in maritime trade, specifically designed for situations where cargo transferability is not required or desired. This non-negotiable document, operating under South African jurisdiction, serves multiple purposes: it acts as a receipt confirming the carrier's acceptance of goods, evidence of the contract of carriage, and a detailed record of the shipment's specifications. Used primarily in direct shipments where the consignee is known and fixed, it differs from a standard Bill of Lading in that it cannot be used to transfer title of goods. The document must comply with South African maritime laws, including the Carriage of Goods by Sea Act and Sea Transport Documents Act, while adhering to international shipping practices. It's particularly valuable in scenarios involving parent companies and their subsidiaries, or in transactions where documentary credit is not required.
