Straight B/L

Straight B/L refers to a bill of lading in which the name of a specific consignee is directly stated in the consignee column, and it is non-negotiable. Its characteristic is that only the designated consignee can take delivery of the goods, and it cannot be transferred to a third party by endorsement. Use cases: usually used for high-value goods, samples, exhibits, or when the buyer and seller have a long-term relationship of trust, as well as when a letter of credit requires the submission of a straight B/L. Precautions: because it is non-negotiable, banks are generally unwilling to accept such a bill of lading as a negotiating document since it cannot circulate; the consignee must prove identity when taking delivery of the goods, and some countries stipulate that the consignee under a straight B/L may take delivery without presenting the original bill of lading, increasing the seller's risk. Difference from an Order B/L: an order B/L can be transferred by endorsement and has strong negotiability, while a straight B/L is non-negotiable. Difference from a Bearer B/L: a bearer B/L can be transferred without endorsement and carries higher risk. Therefore, exporters should use straight B/Ls with caution, especially when the buyer has not paid in full.