explanation

mohd_kkilany · Post by **mohd_kkilany** » Tue Jun 12, 2001 1:00 am

dear mr larry, what i meant was could an l/c ask for through b/l covering two different modes of transport? if so what will be the difference between this b/l and the multimodel transport document then.

T.O.Lee · Post by **T.O.Lee** » Tue Jun 12, 2001 1:00 am

The difference amongst a Straight BL, a Through BL, and a Multimodal Transport BL is a FAQ in our letter of credit workshop from bankers and traders who have deep concern on this topic which they cannot find the ready answer from the books. So we have given a very detailed analysis on this topic. Please click against "Samples of Our Training Materials" in our website after you have finished with the DC PRO browsing here.

We are an LC expert, as well as a previous columnist in a Lloyd's maritime magazine.

However, certain carriers/freight forwarders may abuse the use of a Through Transport BL and may use it to serve the same purpose of a Multimodal Transport BL.

We are from www.tolee.com

[edited 2/9/02 9:00:23 PM]

larryBacon · Post by **larryBacon** » Wed Jun 13, 2001 1:00 am

If a B/L covers two different modes of transport, this by definition is a multimodal B/L. If the same B/L covers the entire journey, it is also a through B/L. Note that two different modes of transport does not mean two vessels or two aircraft etc, but modes of transport which are different from each other.

Laurence A. J. Bacon

T.O.Lee · Post by **T.O.Lee** » Wed Jun 13, 2001 1:00 am

As inspired by Mr. Bacon's comments, we would add that a Through (Transport) BL may cover two or more vessels but restricted to one transport mode only, that means the sea mode only. It cannot cover the surface (land) or air mode of transport.

A Multimodal Transport BL may cover many vessels and many modes of transport, sea, surface (land) or air.

At the back of a Through Transport BL, the first carrier would declare that he is only responsible for the first leg of sea transport performed by his own vessel. He is not responsible for the second leg of transport performed by another carrier after transhipment.

Whereas in a Multimodal Transport BL, the carrier, Multimodal Transport Operator (MTO) would be held responsible for the whole journey, from start to finish.

We hope by now as far as the mode of transport is concerned, it is clear. However, for other differences amongst Straight BL, Through BL and Multimodal Transport BL, please click on "Samples of Our Training Materials" in our website after completion of browsing the DC PRO website.

We are from www.tolee.com

[edited 2/21/02 9:20:57 PM]