A Stale Bill of Lading document becomes necessary when the original bill of lading has not arrived at the discharge port in time for cargo collection, typically when it is more than 21 days old from the date of issuance. This situation commonly arises in international trade due to postal delays, administrative issues, or complex documentary credit requirements. Under German law, particularly the German Commercial Code (HGB), specific procedures must be followed to ensure legal cargo release without the original document. The Stale Bill of Lading document includes comprehensive indemnity provisions, bank guarantees where applicable, and detailed cargo identification information. It is particularly relevant in cases involving letter of credit transactions and international trade operations where German law governs the transaction. The document must comply with both German national regulations and international maritime conventions ratified by Germany.

1. Header Information: Date, reference numbers, addressee details (carrier/shipping line), and subject line clearly indicating this relates to a stale bill of lading

2. Original Bill of Lading Details: Complete details of the original bill of lading including number, date of issue, vessel name, voyage number, port of loading/discharge, and cargo description

3. Current Status Declaration: Statement explaining why the bill of lading is stale and current location/status of the cargo

4. Delivery Instructions: Clear instructions for the release/delivery of cargo, including consignee details and delivery location

5. Indemnity Statement: Standard indemnification clause protecting the carrier against claims arising from delivery without original bill of lading

6. Bank Reference: If applicable, reference to any letter of credit or bank involvement in the transaction

7. Signature Block: Authorized signatures, company details, and contact information