BIMCO sets sights on a global electronic bill of lading standard

BIMCO is to develop an electronic bill of lading standard for the dry and liquid bulk sectors as a key component of a global initiative to accelerate trade digitalisation.

Blank Back Form of Liner Bill of Lading

The latest edition of this bill of lading is Blank Back Form of Liner Bill of Lading 2016.

Change of destination stated in bills of lading

E-Bills of Lading - the simple tool with big potential

Global trade still relies heavily on paper. The main risks of relying on paper are exposure to fraud, clerical errors and lengthy transfer and processing time. This is despite the fact that issuance of electronic bills of lading (eBLs) has been possible for more than 20 years on safe and well-established platforms approved by the International Group of P&I Clubs. It is also despite the fact that eBLs are safer, faster, and greener when compared to their paper bills of lading ancestor.

An open standard for electronic bills of lading is the first task of BIMCO’s new Standards, Innovation & Research department

It’s a task that’s already well under way. BIMCO is working together with many other key stakeholders in the eBill space to help substantially increase the acceptance and use of electronic bills of lading. The open standard bulk shipping bill of lading is due to be published in March

Signing bills of lading on master's behalf

Signing bills of lading when intaken quantity disputed

No original bill of lading - no delivery of cargo

Electronic Bills of lading Clause 2014

BIMCO Electronic Bill of Lading Standard important first step towards trade digitalisation

The bill of lading is arguably the most important of all the trade documents used in shipping and is the key to unlocking the paper handcuffs that constrain shipping’s digital transformation. BIMCO is collaborating on technology agnostic common data standards through the Future International Trade (FIT) Alliance whose members include the DCSA, FIATA, the ICC and SWIFT.