Carriage of Goods by Sea Act 1992 (COGSA 1992): Primary legislation governing bills of lading in England and Wales. Defines rights and liabilities under bills of lading, covers transfer of rights, and addresses title to sue.

Hague-Visby Rules (via COGSA 1971): International rules incorporated into UK law through the Carriage of Goods by Sea Act 1971. Establishes carrier's obligations, sets liability limits, and defines notice periods for claims.

Sale of Goods Act 1979: Legislation governing sale of goods aspects including document of title functionality, transfer of property, and rights of unpaid sellers.

Brussels Convention: International Convention for the Unification of Certain Rules of Law relating to Bills of Lading, providing international standardization for bills of lading.

Rotterdam Rules: International convention on cargo transportation, though not yet in force in UK, provides modern framework for electronic commerce in shipping.

Electronic Commerce (EC Directive) Regulations 2002: Regulations governing electronic commerce, particularly relevant for electronic bills of lading.

UK Marine Insurance Act 1906: Key legislation governing marine insurance aspects of cargo transportation and related documentation.

Common Law Precedents: Body of case law establishing principles regarding document of title functionality, bailment, and contract law principles in shipping context.

ICC Rules: International Chamber of Commerce rules providing standardized practices for international trade and shipping documentation.

Incoterms 2020: International commercial terms defining responsibilities of buyers and sellers in international transactions, including shipping documentation requirements.

UCP 600: Uniform Customs and Practice for Documentary Credits, governing the operation of letters of credit in international trade, including requirements for bills of lading.