Bill of Lading Guide for Exporters
What a bill of lading is, the main types you'll encounter, and how it must align with your commercial invoice and packing list.
What it is
A bill of lading (B/L) is issued by the carrier once cargo is received or loaded. It works as a receipt for the goods, evidence of the contract of carriage, and — in its negotiable form — a document of title that can be used to claim the goods at destination.
Because it can function as title to the goods, banks often require an original negotiable bill of lading as part of the documents presented under a letter of credit.
Types of bill of lading
Straight bill of lading: non-negotiable, consigned to a named party only — that party doesn't need to present the original to collect goods.
Order bill of lading: negotiable, consigned 'to order' and transferable by endorsement — the form banks typically want under an LC.
Seaway bill: a cargo receipt without a title function, used when a negotiable document isn't needed and speed matters more.
Telex release or electronic release: the carrier releases cargo without presenting an original paper B/L — common when the original can't reach the destination before the vessel arrives.
Common mistakes
Shipper, consignee, or notify-party details that don't match the commercial invoice or the letter of credit exactly. Package counts or gross weight on the B/L that disagree with the packing list. Requesting a straight B/L when the buyer's bank actually needs a negotiable order B/L for the LC to work.
Leaving the choice of telex release to the last minute, when the buyer needed an original for their own bank presentation.
How it must match your commercial invoice
Shipper, consignee, port of loading and discharge, package counts, and goods description on the bill of lading should agree with the commercial invoice and packing list. Under a letter of credit, any mismatch here is a common reason a bank raises a discrepancy against the presentation.
If details change after the B/L is issued, get it corrected or reissued — don't let it stand alongside an invoice or packing list that says something different.
How Bilexor helps
Bilexor keeps shipper, consignee, and goods details tied to one shipment record, so the same data flows into your invoice and packing list rather than being retyped separately for each document.
Informational only — not legal, banking, or customs advice. Confirm bill of lading requirements with your carrier, bank, and buyer before shipment.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between a straight and an order bill of lading?
A straight B/L is non-negotiable and consigned to a named party only. An order B/L is negotiable and transferable by endorsement — the form banks typically expect under a letter of credit.
Can a bill of lading be corrected after it's issued?
Yes, through the carrier's amendment or reissue process. Get it corrected as soon as an error is found rather than letting it stand alongside an invoice or packing list that says something different.
Informational only — not legal, banking, tax, or customs advice. Always verify document and LC requirements with your bank, CHA / customs broker, and buyer before presentation.