ICC Digital Library Forum

L/C shows in the port of loading field '' any port in (country) by any regular shipping line". Is the wording ''by any regular shipping line'' a documentary requirement and should it be mentioned on the B/L?

Regards
Antoine

In my opinion, if the CD requires a bill of lading it is ok as it reflects a contract of carriage (v. a CP B/L which reflects the hire of a ship or part of it)
Regards
Daniel

It looks to me like they are trying to reinforce the fact that a CP BL is not allowed and, possibly, that it cannot be issued by the Master or his agent.

I would seek clarification from the issuing bank.

I would regard this as a NDC. However, so as to avoid possible dispute with the issuing bank I would either seek clarification as to how this requirement is to be evidenced or notify the beneficiary that the BLs had to show these words in order for the documents to be considered as compliant and that any confirmation was conditional on this.
[edited 5/25/2011 11:26:30 AM]

I'd refer to Article 3:
Terms such as "first class", "well known", "qualified", "independent", "official", "competent" or "local" used to describe the issuer of a document allow any issuer except the beneficiary to issue that document.

There is no commonly established definition of a "regular shipping line". The word "regular" has no meaning at all in this context. The B/L will be checked in accordance with article 20. CP B/L is not acceptable.