Bill of Lading for UK Vehicle Exports: 2026 Guide

The Bill of Lading (B/L) is the most important document in international car shipping. It is the contract of carriage, a receipt for the vehicle and the document of title that allows the consignee to collect the car at destination. Combined with V5C and commercial invoice it forms the core export pack — see the export documents guide.

The Master B/L is issued by the shipping line (e.g. Maersk, MSC) to the freight forwarder. The House B/L is issued by the forwarder to the actual shipper. Most exporters interact only with the House B/L.

Three release types: original (paper) B/L couriered to the consignee; Telex release (electronic notification to destination office); Express release (no original printed). Telex is the most common for UAE and Middle East routes.

A Switch B/L re-issues the document with a different shipper, consignee or destination — used in re-export and triangular trade. The carrier must approve the switch before it is processed.

Confirm consignee details, NIN/National ID number, exact VIN and engine number before the document is drafted. Errors cause customs delays at Jebel Ali, Hamad, Mombasa and other destinations. Get a free WhatsApp quote on +44 7376 584421 or use our instant cost calculator. The Ship Cars has shipped vehicles to 50+ countries with full marine insurance and door-to-port handling.