No substantial changes in new law on bills of lading

Last Monday, the Bills of Lading Act, 2025, that aims to replace the Indian Bills of Lading Act, 1856, was enacted.

- TNC RAJAGOPALAN

The new law will come into effect on a date to be notified by the government.

In substance, the new legislation changes nothing. The bill of lading, issued by the carriers to the shippers, will continue to be a receipt for goods, evidence of the contract of carriage and a document of title to the goods. Upon endorsement of the bill of lading, the property and the rights under the contract of carriage will continue to pass on to the endorsee. The rights of the carriers for stoppage in transit or claims of freight will continue. In the hands of the endorsee or the consignee, the bill of lading will continue to be the conclusive evidence of shipment even where goods are not laden on board, except in the event of fraud.