SWBDocumentationNegotiable
Sea Waybill (SWB) / Express Bill of Lading
A Sea Waybill is a non-negotiable shipping document that serves as a receipt and contract of carriage. Unlike a traditional B/L, a SWB does not constitute a document of title and cannot be surrendered to release cargo - cargo is released to the named consignee automatically.
Per Shipment
Category:Basic Shipping FeeChina Export Local ChargesDestination Import Charges
Applies to:
FCLLCLAirRailCourierRoadFBAAs Request
Typical Cost Range
$20–$120
flat rate
SWB issuance: $20-$60. OBL issuance and management: $40-$120. SWB is cheaper because no original document handling required.
Who Pays?
Shipper (When CIF, DAP)
Consignee (When EXW, FOB)
Negotiability
Negotiable — discuss with your freight forwarder.
SWB fees are typically lower than OBL fees because there is no original document to manage. Negotiable with forwarders.
Adjustment Frequency
MonthlyWeeklyFixed
Current rate reviewed: Per Bill of Lading
Chargeable Unit
Flat Rate
Formula / Calculation
SWB Fee = Documentation Fee per SWB Issued (usually lower than OBL)Sea WaybillSWBnon-negotiableexpress B/Ldocument
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I use a Sea Waybill or an original B/L?
Use SWB when you trust your consignee and don't need to control cargo via document of title. Use OBL when you need to hold the cargo at destination until payment is received.
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