Ocean Bill of Lading
Ocean Bill of Lading is the document an ocean carrier or NVOCC issues for sea cargo that serves as a receipt for the goods, evidence of the contract of carriage, and, when negotiable, a document of title.
Why it matters for ecommerce brands
Under an original bill of lading, the consignee typically must surrender it, or the carrier must issue a telex release, before cargo is released. Delays in releasing originals can create demurrage at the destination port.
Common questions
- What is a telex release?
- A telex release is when the shipper surrenders the original bill of lading at origin and the carrier electronically authorizes release at destination, so no paper originals need to travel. It avoids delays from couriering originals.
Cite this entry
"Ocean Bill of Lading." Fulfillment Lexicon, last reviewed October 16, 2026. https://fulfillment.wiki/glossary/ocean-bill-of-lading/