To recap our discussion, in this section, we are placing a checklist to comply with prior to signing the bills of lading.
- The form of the bill of lading should be as mentioned in the charter party.
- All terms of the charter party are incorporated in the bill of lading.
- The name of vessel is stated correctly. (sometimes it is overlooked because the template may contain a name of a vessel of previous shipment)
- Both the place of loading and the place of discharge are stated correctly. Sometimes, the bills of lading may mention places of receipt and delivery other than the place of loading and discharge (depending on the conditions of carriage).
- The date and place of cargo receipt are accurate, i.e. if the vessel has been under loading ops for several days, the last day of completion/sailing is the date to be mentioned.
- Accurate description of the goods and the relevant Master's clausing are stated accordingly.
- The clause "Shipped on deck" is duly introduced if the cargo so carried.
- Check whether the carriage term e.g. LILO (liner in, liner out) or FIFO (free in, free out) defining the carrier's scope of responsibility are applicable or not.
- The Master signs only correct number of originals of bills of lading, each of which is identical and stamped "Original".
- Any copy of a bill of lading is stamped as "Non-negotiable copy".
- The Master should be cautious if the cargo value is mentioned in the bill of lading. The Master's company should be informed as the extra insurance or freight may be applicable, moreover, the bills of lading with stated cargo value are not generally P&I covered.
- The carriage instructions (e.g. temperature regime) inserted in the bills of lading should be checked with the shipper.
- If the cargo is shipped to the U. S., a unique series of numbers, assigned to the carrier, must be mentioned in the bills of lading (e.g. the carrier bond)
- Last but not least, the Master signs the bills of lading at the bottom of the bill of lading face as appropriate and not elsewhere as may be requested by the shippers.
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