What is a Bill of Lading in textile export? When do wholesale buyers encounter it?

A Bill of Lading (B/L) is a legal document issued by a shipping carrier to acknowledge receipt of cargo for transportation by sea. It serves three functions simultaneously: a receipt for goods, a contract of carriage, and a document of title.

When small wholesale buyers encounter Bills of Lading:

• When importing fabric or garments from Bangladesh, China, or Sri Lanka by sea freight
• When exporting Indian garments to international buyers
• NOT needed for domestic courier shipments within India

Three types of Bill of Lading:

• Original B/L: Physical document required for customs clearance — must be presented to collect goods at destination port
• Seaway Bill (Non-negotiable): Electronic, not required to collect goods — faster and more common for trusted trading partners
• Telex Release: Surrender of original B/L at origin port, allowing goods collection with just copy at destination