How many original bills of lading must I surrender to get release of cargo..??
This question popped up on my comments and emails quite a few times since the beginning of this year and therefore I decided to write this short note to answer it..
Cargo covered by a bill of lading may only be released to the entity to whom it is consigned..
The shipping line and/or their agents at the destination must take cognisance of the type of bill of lading issued, the endorsements required on the bill of lading for the type of bill of lading before releasing the cargo..
Some lines are releasing cargo without the endorsement , some are strictly following above, some are content with releasing cargo to whoever is in possession of the bill of lading and are not seeking any endorsement or authorisation letter (in the case of release to an agent)..
What is your viewpoint on this issue and let us take a vote to see how strictly these endorsement requirements are followed..