Skip to content
Jan 21, 2019

Shipping Terms Glossary: Original Bill of Lading (OBL)

Common Shipping Terms: Original Bill of Lading (OBL)

An original bill of lading (OBL) is a document that serves as proof of ownership of the importer’s goods. It’s typically issued by the origin forwarder on the origin manufacturer’s behalf. Once the origin manufacturer receives payment for the goods that the importer purchased, the shipper arranges for release. 

You can download our full glossary of shipping terms here.

Latest Articles

News

Shippabo Global Newsletter June 2026

Transpacific & Asia–North America Ocean Freight Market Update

June 08, 2026

News

Beyond the Container Rate: Using AI to Optimize Furniture Supply Chains

From the Shippabo presentation at HFA 2026. Join Daniel Kraus, Shippabo's VP of Product, as he walks thorugh how importers can use AI - whe...

June 01, 2026

News

Shippabo Global Newsletter May 2026

Transpacific & Asia–North America Ocean Freight Market Update

May 04, 2026