Electronic bills of lading
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: The ocean bill of lading has undergone various transformations over the years,
from a document of description to a document of title representing the goods it
describes.$^1$ The marketplace has developed dramatically over the past 20
years.$^2$ Most of the legislation dealing with bills of lading and shipping
documentation was drafted in an age well before computers, the internet and
electronic data interchange.$^3$ This electronic revolution and the ever changing
technology brings with it complexities and challenges.$^4$ Therefore there is some
legal uncertainty with regard to the electronic transfer of the bill of lading.$^5$ The
bill of lading has failed to adapt to the technological advancements of the modern
market and the shipping industry. As a result of this, the paper - based bill of
lading has to some extent lost its commercial credibility.$^6$
Collections
- Law [826]