Carriage of Goods by Sea Act (COGSA): Federal law from 1936 that governs the rights and responsibilities between shippers and ocean carriers in international sea transport. Establishes liability limits and requirements for Bills of Lading.
Federal Bills of Lading Act (Pomerene Act): 1916 federal law governing bills of lading in interstate and foreign commerce, establishing rules for negotiable instruments and liability.
Harter Act: 1893 federal law applying to domestic shipments, regulating the rights and duties of maritime carriers and shippers, particularly regarding seaworthiness and cargo care.
Interstate Commerce Act: Federal law regulating transportation carriers, including requirements for bills of lading in interstate commerce.
Hague Rules: International convention establishing uniform rules for bills of lading in international trade, including carrier responsibilities and liability limitations.
Hague-Visby Rules: Updated version of Hague Rules with modified liability limits. Though US is not a signatory, relevant for international shipments.
Hamburg Rules: Alternative international convention for carriage of goods by sea. While US is not a signatory, may be relevant for international transactions.
UCC Article 7: Uniform Commercial Code section governing documents of title, including bills of lading, establishing rules for their issuance and negotiation.
UCC Section 7-301: Specific provision addressing liability for non-receipt or misdescription in bills of lading and other documents of title.
State Contract Laws: Various state-specific laws governing contract formation, transfer of title, and commercial transactions affecting bills of lading.
FMC Regulations: Federal Maritime Commission rules governing common carriers, including requirements for tariff publishing and bill of lading provisions.
