Charter Party B/L

A Charter Party B/L is a bill of lading issued by the shipowner or charterer under a charter party, typically used for the carriage of bulk cargo (such as grain, ore, coal, oil, etc.). Its key feature is that the B/L terms are often linked to the charter party, and it may state 'freight payable as per charter party' or 'all terms as per charter party.' Unlike a liner B/L, a charter party B/L is not a complete independent contract of carriage, and banks under a letter of credit generally do not accept such B/Ls unless the L/C expressly permits or provides for their acceptance. Usage scenario: When a cargo owner charters a whole ship or part of the space to transport bulk cargo, the shipowner issues a charter party B/L as a receipt for the goods and a document of title. Points to note: 1) A charter party B/L may contain terms unfavorable to the consignee, such as lien and freight payment methods; 2) In L/C settlement, if not expressly permitted, banks will reject a charter party B/L; 3) In case of conflict between the B/L and the charter party, the charter party usually prevails. Difference: A liner B/L is an independent contract between the carrier and the shipper, while a charter party B/L is governed by the charter party.