eBL
Electronic Bill of Lading
An eBL is the digital version of a paper Bill of Lading. It does the same jobs, but it moves between companies electronically instead of by courier.
In plain words
A paper B/L must travel by courier from the shipper to the bank and then to the buyer. This can take days, and originals can be lost. An eBL is issued and transferred on a secure electronic platform. Only one party controls the eBL at any time, just like only one party holds a paper original.
For an eBL to replace a paper B/L, the law must accept electronic transferable documents. The UNCITRAL Model Law on Electronic Transferable Records (MLETR) gives this legal basis in countries that adopt it in their national law. Not every country, bank, or company accepts eBLs yet, so check with your buyer, bank, and carrier first.
Example from real shipping
An exporter and an importer agree to use an eBL. After loading, the shipping line issues the eBL on a platform that all parties use. The exporter transfers it to the importer's bank, and the bank transfers it to the importer after payment. The importer presents the eBL electronically and collects the container, with no courier needed.
Related terms
- B/LA Bill of Lading (B/L) is the main document for sea freight. The carrier issues it when it takes the goods. It shows who can collect the goods at the destination.
- eFBLThe eFBL is FIATA's digital version of the FIATA Multimodal Transport Bill of Lading (FBL). Forwarders issue it electronically instead of on paper.
- Sea WaybillA sea waybill is a sea transport document that is not a document of title. The consignee named on it can collect the goods without presenting an original.
Have a shipment in mind?
Tell us about your cargo, and we will explain the documents and costs for your route.
Request a QuoteThis glossary is general information, not legal or customs advice. Rules, fees, and practice can differ by carrier, port, and country.