How to Fill Out a Bill of Lading (B/L)

Complete legal name and full address of the exporter/seller

Include multiple contact methods for urgent communication

Required if goods need export licensing

Must match exactly with other shipping documents

Often same as consignee, but can be freight forwarder or agent

Include if required by destination country

Be specific - avoid generic terms like 'general cargo'

Use correct 6-digit harmonized system code

Include both gross and net weight in metric units

Specify containers, pallets, cartons, etc.

Where goods are loaded onto the vessel

Where goods are unloaded from vessel

Final destination for door-to-door shipments

All container numbers if containerized cargo