Document background
The Sea Bill of Lading is a fundamental document in international maritime trade, essential for transactions governed by Belgian law. It is required whenever goods are transported by sea, particularly in international commerce, and serves as evidence that a carrier has received goods for shipment. The document must comply with Belgian Maritime Code and relevant international conventions, particularly the Hague-Visby Rules. A Sea Bill of Lading includes critical information such as the identity of the carrier, shipper, and consignee; description of goods; vessel details; and terms of carriage. It facilitates international trade by allowing goods to be sold in transit through the transfer of the document itself, functioning as a title document under Belgian law. The document is particularly crucial for letter of credit transactions and customs clearance procedures.
