BILL OF LADING - The document issued
on behalf of the carrier describing the kind and quantity
of goods being shipped, the shipper, the consignee,
the ports of loading and discharge and the carrying
vessel.
A memorandum or acknowledgment in writing, signed
by the captain or master of a ship or other vessel,
that he has received in good order, on board of his
ship or vessel, therein named, at the place therein
mentioned, certain goods therein specified, which
he promises to deliver in like good order, (the dangers
of the seas excepted,) at the place therein appointed
for the delivery of the same, to the consignee therein
named or to his assigns, he or they paying freight
for the same. Or it is the written evidence of a contract
for the carriage and delivery of goods sent by sea
for a certain freight.
A bill of lading ought to contain the name of the
consignor; the name of the consignee the name of the
master of the vessel; the name of the vessel; the
place of departure and destination; the price of the
freight; and in the margin, the marks and numbers
of the things shipped.
It is usually made in three original's, or parts.
One of them is commonly sent to the consignee on board
with the goods; another is sent to him by mail or
some other conveyance; and the third is retained by
the merchant or shipper. The master should also take
care to have another part for his own use.
The bill of lading is assignable, and the assignee
is entitled to the goods, subject, however, to the
shipper's right, in some cases, of stoppage in transitu.
