What does it mean when a shipment is issued a Board Bill of Lading?

When a shipment is issued a Board Bill of Lading, it signifies that the shipment has been confirmed to be on a specific vessel for transport. This document serves as proof that the shipping company has received the goods and has loaded them onto the vessel, enabling the shipper to track the shipment's progress and for the consignee to claim the shipment upon arrival. It provides important details regarding the cargo, such as the shipping route, the vessel name, and other critical information related to the transport of goods.

The Board Bill of Lading is crucial in international trade as it serves both as a receipt for the goods and as a contract between the shipper and the carrier. It also establishes the terms under which the goods are being transported, helping to ensure that all parties involved have a clear understanding of their responsibilities and the conditions under which the shipment will take place.