The Transhipment Bill of Lading is essential for international maritime trade where goods must be transferred between vessels during their journey to their final destination. This document, governed by German law, particularly the Commercial Code (Handelsgesetzbuch), serves multiple crucial functions: it acts as a receipt confirming the carrier's possession of goods, evidences the contract of carriage, and functions as a document of title enabling the transfer of ownership. It is specifically used when direct shipping routes are not available or economically viable, requiring cargo to be transferred at intermediate ports. The document must contain detailed information about all vessels involved, transhipment points, and specific handling instructions, while clearly defining liabilities and responsibilities during the entire journey, including the critical transhipment phase.

1. Document Title and Number: Clear identification of the document as a Transhipment Bill of Lading with unique reference number

2. Carrier Details: Name and address of the carrier/shipping line issuing the bill of lading

3. Shipper Details: Full name and address of the party shipping the goods

4. Consignee Details: Full name and address of the party to whom the goods are to be delivered

5. Notify Party: Details of the party to be notified upon arrival of the goods

6. Vessel and Voyage Details: Names of vessels involved in the shipment, including both initial and onward vessels

7. Ports: Port of loading, transhipment ports, and final port of discharge

8. Cargo Details: Description of goods, including marks, numbers, quantity, weight, and measurement

9. Freight and Charges: Details of freight payments and other charges, whether prepaid or collect

10. Transhipment Provisions: Specific terms regarding the transfer of goods between vessels and associated responsibilities

11. Standard Terms and Conditions: General terms governing the shipment, liability, and obligations of parties

12. Carrier's Receipt: Acknowledgment of receipt of goods in apparent good order and condition

13. Date and Place of Issue: When and where the bill of lading was issued

14. Signature Box: Space for authorized signature and company stamp