What characterizes a clean Bill of Lading?

A clean Bill of Lading is characterized by the fact that the shipment has been received by the carrier with no indication of damage or shortages. This type of document signifies that the goods are in good condition and match the description provided in the bill, which is critical for both the seller and the buyer during international trade. A clean Bill of Lading is often required by banks for payment in letters of credit, as it assures them that the goods have been transported without any visible issues.

The other choices introduce elements that do not pertain to the definition of a clean Bill of Lading. A detailed inventory of the shipment is typically associated with other types of shipping documents but is not specific to a clean Bill of Lading, which focuses on the condition of the goods. Notarization by a public official is not a standard requirement for a clean Bill of Lading; instead, it is a legal aspect that applies to some forms of documentation but not universally in shipping. Lastly, indicating a partial shipment suggests that not all the goods have been loaded or delivered in full, contradicting the intended assurance of completeness and quality inherent in a clean Bill of Lading.