Documentation
Master Bill of Lading (MBL)
The bill of lading issued by the ocean carrier (shipping line) for the entire shipment, often covering multiple house bills in LCL consolidations.
In depth
The master B/L is the carrier’s document for the overall movement: one per container or consolidated booking with the vessel operator. In LCL, multiple house B/Ls sit under a single master. Banks and customs may see MBL or HBL depending on who is the contracting carrier.
Key points
- Issued by the ocean carrier (shipping line)
- Covers FCL or consolidated LCL movements
- Forwarder appears as shipper on MBL in many LCL cases
- Surrender/release at destination follows carrier and forwarder agreement