Understanding the Memorandum Bill of Lading: Definition and Uses

Q: How is it different from a standard bill of lading?

A standard bill of lading includes freight charges and serves as a contract of carriage, while a memorandum bill does not.

Q: Can I use a memorandum bill of lading for legal claims?

While it serves as proof of cargo receipt, it may not have the same legal standing as a full bill of lading in disputes.

Definition & Meaning

A memorandum bill of lading is a type of shipping document that serves as a receipt for cargo but does not indicate the freight charges. It is typically the third part of a multipart bill of lading, which may include duplicates marked as memorandum for informational purposes only. These documents are essential in the shipping industry, as they provide proof of cargo receipt without detailing the costs involved.

Table of content

Legal Use & context

Memorandum bills of lading are commonly used in shipping and logistics. They play a crucial role in legal transactions involving the transportation of goods, particularly in maritime law. This document can be relevant in various legal contexts, including contracts, shipping disputes, and cargo claims. Users may find it helpful to utilize legal templates from US Legal Forms to create or manage these documents effectively.

Key legal elements

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

For instance, a shipping company may issue a memorandum bill of lading when transporting goods internationally. This document confirms that the cargo has been received but does not specify the shipping fees. (Hypothetical example).

Comparison with related terms

Term	Definition	Key Differences
Bill of Lading	A document issued by a carrier acknowledging receipt of cargo.	Includes freight charges; serves as a contract of carriage.
Master Bill of Lading	The main document issued by the carrier for the entire shipment.	Can include multiple bills of lading for different consignments.

Common misunderstandings

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are involved in shipping goods and receive a memorandum bill of lading, ensure you understand its purpose as a receipt without freight charges. If you need to create or manage this document, consider using templates from US Legal Forms for guidance. For complex shipping issues, consulting a legal professional may be advisable.

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Quick facts

Attribute	Details
Purpose	Receipt for cargo
Freight Charges	Not included
Document Type	Part of a multipart bill of lading

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

What is a memorandum bill of lading?

It is a shipping document that serves as a receipt for cargo but does not indicate freight charges.