eFBL
Electronic FIATA Multimodal Transport Bill of Lading · Electronic FIATA Bill of Lading
The eFBL is FIATA's digital version of the FIATA Multimodal Transport Bill of Lading (FBL). Forwarders issue it electronically instead of on paper.
In plain words
The eFBL has the same role as the paper FBL: it is a multimodal transport document that a freight forwarder issues. Because it is digital, it can be sent in seconds, and the receiver can check that it is genuine.
The UNCITRAL Model Law on Electronic Transferable Records (MLETR) gives electronic transferable documents like the eFBL legal standing in countries that adopt it. Rules differ by country, and not every bank or buyer accepts electronic documents yet. Agree on the eFBL with all parties before you ship.
Example from real shipping
A forwarder ships goods from Istanbul to a buyer abroad under an FBL. The buyer's bank accepts electronic documents, so all parties agree to use an eFBL. The forwarder issues the eFBL right after loading. The bank receives it the same day, instead of waiting for a courier.
Related terms
- FBLThe FBL is a standard Bill of Lading created by FIATA, the international federation of freight forwarders. A freight forwarder issues it, and it can cover a journey with more than one mode of transport.
- eBLAn 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.
- 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.
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Request a QuoteThis glossary is general information, not legal or customs advice. Rules, fees, and practice can differ by carrier, port, and country.