Document background
The Charter Bill of Lading is a fundamental document in maritime transport, used when cargo is carried under a charter party arrangement. This document type is particularly relevant in New Zealand's maritime trade context, where it must comply with both local legislation (including the Maritime Transport Act 1994 and Contract and Commercial Law Act 2017) and international conventions such as the Hague-Visby Rules. It serves multiple purposes: as a receipt confirming cargo loaded onto a vessel, as evidence of the contract of carriage, and as a document of title to the goods. The Charter Bill of Lading includes crucial information about the shipment, including vessel details, cargo specifications, parties involved, and terms of carriage, making it essential for international trade transactions and cargo claims handling.
