Glossary
What is Bill of lading?
A bill of lading is the carrier's receipt for a shipment, naming the shipper, the consignee, the goods and the port of entry.
Last checked 11 October 2026
Also calledBOLB/L
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Why it matters
US bills of lading are substantially public, which is what makes it possible to connect a Chinese exporter to a named American importer without either company disclosing anything.