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ICE CargoDocs electronic Bills of Lading

ICE CargoDocs electronic Bills of Lading (eB/Ls) are the global industry standard, used by a rapidly expanding network spanning thousands of customers across all continents.

  • Simple: ICE CargoDocs eB/Ls are based on best paper processes therefore providing a solution that is extremely intuitive and easy to use. One Master exclaims, “It is easier than online shopping!”
  • Easily-Accessible: Our secure Document Exchange – ICE CargoDocs – can be accessed either by web-browser on any computer or internet-enabled device, via business to business message (B2B) or, for vessels with no internet, via secure email. Access is not limited to the office, meaning users can deal with their electronic Bills of Lading on the road or even at home, if required
  • Industry-Led: All of our solutions have been (and continue to be) industry-led, from the market where our solutions are used, to the way features work in different markets. This industry-led approach is key to market acceptance of ICE CargoDocs electronic Bills of Lading.
  • Legally Valid: An ICE CargoDocs eB/L is the legal and functional equivalent of a paper Bill of Lading
  • Industry-Approved: ICE CargoDocs eB/Ls are accepted and recognized by The International Group of P&I Clubs (IG), representing the 12 Protection and Indemnity (P&I) Clubs which insure 95% of the world’s ocean going fleet, as well as other Industry bodies such as the ITIC and TT Club
  • Secure: Security is at the core of ICE CargoDocs, built to withstand all manner of external and internal threats, undergoing frequent audits to cover all vulnerabilities
  • Based on Data: Our eB/Ls are based on data, and as such, users can interface with ICE CargoDocs eB/Ls to pull data directly into their shipping, operations, finance and/or ERP systems

World’s largest electronic Bill of Lading Network

ICE CargoDocs electronic Bills of Lading are used by 9,000+ companies across 81 Countries
 

Firsts

  •  First eB/L solution to be used operationally
  •  First to be adopted by a critical mass of users across an entire trade network
  •  First to be used in spot trades; first to be used globally
  •  First to allow a master to sign by web browser & secure email solution
  •  First eB/L based on pure data, allowing true automation & acceleration
  •  First to be used in all shipping modes: Tankers, Bulkers, Barges & Liner

eB/Ls Explained

For nearly three decades, the industry sought to find a solution to the difficulties, costs and inefficiencies associated with paper Bills of Lading. The obvious answer: make the Bill an electronic document!

The electronic Bill of Lading finally became a reality with the operational launch of ICE CargoDocs (formerly known as DocEx), which enables users to create, issue and transfer eDocs – including an electronic bill of lading (eB/L) – through the trade chain.

Features & Benefits

  • Electronic signing by Master, Authorised Agent or HQ user
  • Electronic issuing by Master, authorised Agent, Forwarder or Terminal, as relevant
  • Ability for Forwarder, authorised Agent, Terminal, etc., to generate an acceptable ICE CargoDocs eB/L output for Tax & Customs Authorities
  • Ability for Shipper (or any other title holder) to add additional documents and sign them electronically
  • Seamlessly integrated to Assemble Cargo Docs, enabling full-lifecycle control of documents – from creation to transaction/execution
  • PDF copies of electronic Bills of Lading can be sent to any party whether they are an ICE CargoDocs user or not, including ICE CargoDocs certified copies which can be verified by parties receiving the PDF online
  • Ability for title holder to transfer eB/Ls (and peripheral documents) by way of a to order, blank or straight endorsement
  • Ability for title holder to present the eB/L (and peripheral documents) to Banks under the eUCP
  • Option to submit 20022 message data for Bank Payment Obligation baseline or matching
  • If desired, uploading and electronic signing of relevant Certificates and/or Letters of Protest by the Independent Inspector, or Vessel / Ship’s Agent
  • Ability for title holder to request amendments (which if accepted by the relevant parties such as the Carrier, will be automatically completed), such as change of destinations, splitting of eB/Ls, etc.
  • Ability for title holder to produce (aka surrender) the electronic Bill of Lading back to the Master at the discharge port in order to receive the goods
  • Ability for the End Receiver to generate an acceptable ICE CargoDocs output for Customs Authorities relating to the import of the cargo
  • Ability for the Master or carrier to accomplish the electronic Bill of Lading
  • Can act as an Electronic Folder for saving all other documentation required to create a complete file of a trade or transaction, such as a Charter Party, complete Surveyor’s Report, etc., that will not be shared with your Buyer or Seller

Insurance

ICE Digital Trade holds insurance cover of $20MM per electronic Bill of Lading for eRisks, defined as any loss resulting from an eCrime or eFailure.

Adopt

Adopting ICE CargoDocs electronic Bills of Lading is straightforward and our experienced team will help you through our tried and tested onboarding process. Contact us to get started or request your very own free online demo.