Sea Waybill

Abbreviation: SWB Updated November 5, 2026

A sea waybill is a non-negotiable ocean transport document and not a document of title. The named consignee can collect the cargo simply by proving its identity, with no original to present. It speeds things up and avoids couriering documents, so it suits shipments between affiliated companies or to trusted buyers. Avoid it when a letter of credit calls for a negotiable B/L or when the seller needs to keep control of the goods until payment.

Bill of Lading (B/L)
A bill of lading is the ocean transport document issued by the carrier or its agent.
Telex Release
A telex release lets cargo be collected at destination without an original B/L.
Delivery Order (DO)
A delivery order is the instruction from the carrier or its agent at destination to release the container to the consignee.

Covered in these guides

Export-import

Export and Import Documents in Indonesia: What You Need, Who Issues It, When

A practical guide to Indonesian export and import documents, from invoice, packing list and B/L to SKA, PEB/NPE, PIB/SPPB, quarantine certificates and the DO.

6 min read

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Sea Waybill

Related terms

Covered in these guides

Export and Import Documents in Indonesia: What You Need, Who Issues It, When

Try it in the 3D Planner