What is a Sea Waybill?

A sea waybill is a transport document used in international shipping to provide evidence of the contract of carriage and to specify the details of the shipment. Unlike a bill of lading, a sea waybill is not a negotiable instrument and does not represent title to the goods. Instead, it serves as a receipt for the cargo and contains information such as the names of the shipper and consignee, the ports of loading and discharge, the description of the goods, and the freight charges. A sea waybill is typically issued in several copies, with one copy being retained by the carrier, one copy being given to the shipper, and one copy being sent to the consignee. It is an important document in international trade, as it helps to facilitate the movement of goods across borders by providing a clear record of the terms and conditions of the shipment.