Said to Contain: A Comprehensive Guide to Its Legal Definition

Definition & Meaning

The phrase "said to contain" is a disclaimer often found on ocean bills of lading. It indicates that the ocean carrier has not verified the type, quantity, or condition of the cargo when accepting a loaded and sealed container for transport. This disclaimer serves to protect the carrier from liability regarding the contents of the container, as they are relying on the information provided by the shipper.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A shipping company receives a sealed container labeled as containing electronics. Upon arrival, the contents are found to be damaged. The shipping company can invoke the "said to contain" disclaimer to limit its liability since it did not verify the contents.

Example 2: A freight forwarder accepts a container labeled as containing textiles. If the textiles are missing upon delivery, the freight forwarder may not be held liable due to the "said to contain" disclaimer. (hypothetical example)

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Key Differences
Bill of Lading A document issued by a carrier to acknowledge receipt of cargo for shipment. A bill of lading may or may not include disclaimers like "said to contain."
Carrier Liability The legal responsibility of a carrier for loss or damage to cargo. "Said to contain" limits this liability based on non-verification of cargo.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you encounter a "said to contain" disclaimer on your shipping documents, it's important to understand your rights and responsibilities. Ensure that you have accurate documentation of the cargo's contents. If issues arise, consider using US Legal Forms to find templates for claims or disputes. For complex situations, seeking legal advice may be necessary.

Quick facts

  • Typical use: Shipping and logistics.
  • Primary document: Ocean bill of lading.
  • Liability: Limited for the carrier regarding unverified cargo.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

It indicates that the carrier has not verified the contents of the cargo.