What is the primary purpose of a Bill of Lading?

The primary purpose of a Bill of Lading is to serve as a transportation document that outlines the terms and conditions agreed upon between shippers and carriers. This document is essential in the shipping process as it acts as a receipt for the goods being transported, a contract for transport services, and a document of title as well. It specifies important details such as the type of goods, their quantity, the agreed-upon transport fees, and other contractual obligations between the involved parties. Having a clear Bill of Lading reduces disputes and misunderstandings by formally documenting the expectations and responsibilities of both shippers and carriers.

Other options, while related to shipping and transport, do not capture the comprehensive role of the Bill of Lading. For instance, a tracking number pertains primarily to locating and monitoring shipments rather than defining contractual obligations. A contract specific to air freight would not encompass all transportation modalities that a Bill of Lading covers, and a certificate of ownership does not address the procedural aspects of transporting goods or the relationship between the shipper and carrier. Therefore, the primary role of the Bill of Lading in codifying terms and conditions between these parties highlights its critical importance in logistics and transportation.