A conceptual analysis of electronic bills of lading

Abstract

For centuries, bills of lading have been in paper form. However, the last few decades have seen continuous progress made in the development of electronic alternatives to the paper bill of lading, these generally being referred to as electronic bills of lading. This paper aims to conduct a conceptual analysis of electronic bills of lading. It explores the composition of an electronic bill of lading, analyses the legal requirements for it to replicate the functions of the paper bill of lading, and discusses its legal status under a number of available national laws and international rules. The paper concludes that it is vitally necessary to adopt legal rules at both national and international levels, so as to clarify its legal status and facilitate the use of an electronic bill of lading.