The Negotiable FIATA Multimodal Transport Bill of Lading is a trustworthy and reputable trade document, mainly thanks to its Terms and Conditions, which includes the necessity for the document issuer to be a valid FIATA/National Association member and to have a valid liability insurance. It is the only truly multimodal negotiable standard Bill of Lading, set up by FIATA for the use by Freight-Forwarders acting as Multimodal Transport Operators (MTO). The ICC logo, visible on the top right of the document, demonstrates its conformity with UNCTAD/ICC rules for Multimodal Transport Documents. Find out more about the FBL

The transition period between paper and digital will be done gradually. For now, paper FBL can still be purchased and used by FIATA members and members of FIATA associations

As with the paper FBLs, FIATA does not interfere in the transfer of title process. FIATA provides the eFBL standard and API service and digitally certifies the identity of its members and National Associations members, while specialized electronic document transfer systems allow to securely handle the transfer of title. Freight-Forwarders are free to choose how they wish to share and transfer eFBLs with their stakeholders: as a printed document or digitally. This solution corresponds to the current legal status of electronic transferable records, which are unfortunately not yet legally recognized worldwide.

In parallel, FIATA is working with other key organizations (BIMCO, DCSA, ICC and SWIFT), through the Future International Trade (FIT) Alliance, on solutions to facilitate the interoperability of eBL platforms, allowing eBLs to be transferred from one platform to the other seamlessly.

To issue secured digital FBLs your company needs to hold a valid freight-forwarder liability insurance. Digital FBLs packages do not include any insurance coverage. If you wish to get a specific FBL insurance, please contact your National Association.

All freight forwarders wishing to issue the FIATA Multimodal Transport Bill of Lading (“FBL”) or its digital equivalent are required to be in possession of valid liability insurance in accordance with the FBL terms and conditions (“FBL T&Cs”) which are contained on the reverse of the document.

Please consult our GUIDANCE ON LIABILITY INSURANCE FOR THE FIATA MULTIMODAL TRANSPORT BILL OF LADING (FBL) for more detailed information.

If you don't have the required insurance we advise you to contact your association who may be able to provide you with an adequate insurance coverage or help you find one. FIATA is working on an insurance scheme to offer insured digital FBLs, this should be available by the end of 2023.

Cargo insurance is paid for by the shipper or consignee who is the beneficial owner of the cargo (BCO) to help mitigate the risks from loss of or damage to the cargo. Liability insurance is the insurance purchased by the freight forwarder for losses or damage that could arise from their professional acts or omissions. For a risk free transit, both cargo and forwarders liability insurance are recommended. Kindly contact your insurer or refer to FIATA's guidance note on the topic for more information.

FIATA has a Service Level Agreement (SLA) with all software providers which ensure that all technical issue will be addressed properly and solutions will be provided in a timely manner. All data is backed-up automatically.

A private, centralized Quantum Ledger Data Base (QLDB) blockchain is used. The blockchain is operated by a third party (Komgo) and hosted by another third party (Amazon).