COGSA 1936: Carriage of Goods by Sea Act - Primary US federal law governing the rights and responsibilities between shippers and carriers in international ocean transport. Note: Special attention needed as COGSA doesn't automatically apply to on deck cargo.

Pomerene Act 1916: Federal Bills of Lading Act - Governs the rights and liabilities of parties involved in the issuance and transfer of bills of lading in international and interstate commerce.

Harter Act 1893: US federal law that regulates maritime contracts of carriage, particularly relevant when COGSA doesn't apply. Important for coastwise trade and on deck cargo situations.

Ocean Shipping Reform Act: Modern legislation governing ocean shipping practices, focusing on carrier practices, shipping contracts, and regulatory compliance in maritime transport.

The Hague Rules: International convention establishing standard rules for bills of lading, influential in US maritime law despite being superseded by COGSA.

The Hague-Visby Rules: Updated version of The Hague Rules. While US is not a signatory, these rules are relevant for international shipping transactions involving other countries.

Hamburg Rules: Alternative international convention for carriage of goods by sea. Though US is not a signatory, awareness is important for international shipping transactions.

UCC Article 7: Uniform Commercial Code Article governing documents of title, including bills of lading, as adopted by individual states.

FMC Regulations: Federal Maritime Commission regulations governing ocean transportation intermediaries and carrier practices in US waters.

CBP Requirements: U.S. Customs and Border Protection documentation and procedural requirements for international shipping and cargo declaration.

46 CFR Part 146: Code of Federal Regulations section specifically addressing requirements for shipping documents and dangerous goods transportation.