Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD) 2026 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

A House Bill of Lading (HBL) is typically issued by a consolidator or Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier (NVOCC). This document serves as a contract between the shipper and the consolidator, providing details about the shipment, including the types and quantities of goods being transported. The HBL is particularly important in freight forwarding and logistics, as it enables consolidators to manage multiple smaller shipments from different shippers into a single larger shipment, which is then sent to a destination.

The relevance of the consolidator or NVOCC in this role is significant since they act as intermediaries who arrange the transportation of goods without actually operating the vessels themselves. They take on the responsibilities typically associated with shipping lines, providing a level of flexibility for shippers who may not have large volumes of freight.

In contrast, the carrier operating a vessel would issue a Master Bill of Lading (MBL), which is distinct from the HBL. The transportation company can refer to various entities within the logistics chain but doesn't specifically pertain to the issuance of HBLs in the context of consolidation. Lastly, an international shipping association does not issue bills of lading; rather, it may provide guidelines, advocacy, or standards related to shipping practices.