Document background
The Inland Bill of Lading is a crucial document in Belgium's inland waterway transport system, which operates on one of Europe's most extensive networks of navigable rivers and canals. This document type is specifically designed for domestic water transport operations within Belgian territory, governed by Belgian Commercial Code and aligned with EU regulations. The Inland Bill of Lading serves three primary functions: it acts as evidence of the contract of carriage, provides receipt for the goods loaded, and serves as a document of title. It must contain specific information required by Belgian law, including detailed cargo descriptions, parties involved, vessel information, and terms of carriage. This document is particularly important given Belgium's position as a major logistics hub, with its inland waterways connecting major commercial centers and ports. The use of an Inland Bill of Lading is mandatory for commercial inland waterway transport in Belgium, ensuring proper documentation and legal compliance for cargo movements.
