what is an ocean bill of lading 
an ocean bill of lading is a document required for the transportation of goods overseas across international waters an ocean bill of lading serves as both the carrier s receipt to the shipper and as a collection document or an invoice the contract is a legally binding document between both the shipper and the carrier of the shipment a bill of lading is a legal document or contract between the shipper and carrier which details the type quantity and destination of goods being carried the bill of lading serves as a receipt of shipment when the goods are delivered at the predetermined destination there are different kinds of bills of lading each with unique stipulations and conditions 