Maritime transport
When sea freight is discussed, the first thing that comes to mind for people are cargo ships equipped to transport various goods with specific characteristics. Goods transported by sea typically have large volumes and are generally unaffected by extended transit times in terms of quality and market conditions, although a country’s geographical features may influence the transportation mode. In maritime transport, various vessels such as oil tankers, ferries, and others are used depending on the distance, route type, cargo type, and more. Maritime transport is one of the most significant modes of transportation used worldwide, serving humanity for centuries in fulfilling travel and trade needs. Despite the invention of new transportation modes, maritime transport has maintained its importance. Approximately 90% of international transportation worldwide is estimated to be conducted via sea routes. This type of transportation is managed by maritime shipping companies.
The Nilgon Group of International Transportation Companies, recognizing the paramount importance of maritime shipping in the transportation of goods, has assembled a team of specialists dedicated to providing regular services in the fields of container ships, bulk carriers, and tanker chartering. They offer high-capacity fuel-efficient vessels with acceptable operational speeds at minimal costs, aiming to fully cater to the needs of customers and cargo owners. They ensure the delivery of their customers’ goods to the farthest corners of the world in accordance with the latest regulations of the IMO (International Maritime Organization). It is worth mentioning that the export shipment of goods to all corners of the world is encompassed within the activities of the maritime transportation company in this group.
Ocean/Marine Bill Of Lading
A document issued by a shipping company Mehdi Montazer, a lawyer and certified attorney, explains: “Each bill of lading or similar document, under which the shipping contract is determined from the time of issuance, defines the relationship between the carrier and the holder of the bill of lading or similar document.”
In any case, a bill of lading serves as proof of the existence of a maritime transportation contract.
The bill of lading serves as a crucial document in shipping and transportation.
1) Evidence of contract of carriage
2) The receipt of goods
3) Document of title to the goods
Typically, maritime bills of lading are prepared in 4 copies, each held by 4 different parties.
1- Shipper (Sender of the goods) 2- Consignee (Receiver of the goods) 3- Master of the vessel (Captain of the ship) 4- Owner of the ship or their legal representative
Types of sea freight bill of lading:
direct bill of lading
Direct bill of lading in maritime transportation is a document indicating the transport of goods from origin to destination without transshipment, implying direct shipment to the consignee.
National bill of lading
A through bill of lading indicates that the goods will be transported from the seller’s country to the final destination using multiple modes of transport (such as ship, truck, etc.).
Ocean Bill of Lading (related to regular ocean services)
This bill of lading is issued for shipments carried by vessels with defined schedules and specific routes. Companies that engage in such shipments are subject to specific regulations and have predetermined rates.
Charter bill of lading
A charter party bill of lading is executed under a voyage charter service. Essentially, it is a charter party document issued for cargoes transported under a time charter contract by chartered vessels. The transport of goods under this bill of lading is subject to the terms of the charter party. This bill of lading is not typically accepted by banks for documentary credits unless otherwise stipulated (such as when vessels over 15 years of age convert to chartered vessels under a time charter).