A bill of lading is a legal document that serves as a receipt for goods shipped by a carrier, such as a trucking company or shipping line. In South Africa, a bill of lading is typically used when importing or exporting goods by sea or air. It provides important details such as the names of the shipper and consignee, the type and quantity of goods being shipped, the port of origin and destination, and the expected date of arrival. The bill of lading also serves as a contract between the shipper and the carrier, specifying the terms and conditions of the shipment, including any applicable tariffs or duties. In South Africa, a bill of lading must comply with the regulations set out by the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS) which is an agency of the Department of Trade and Industry, which is responsible for regulating compliance with international standards and regulations.
