Legal Definitions - document of title

A document of title is a written description, identification, or declaration of goods that allows the holder, usually a bailee, to receive, hold, and dispose of the document and the goods it covers. Examples of documents of title include bills of lading, warehouse receipts, and delivery orders. These documents are typically governed by Article 7 of the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC).

• Bills of lading: A bill of lading is a document issued by a carrier that acknowledges receipt of goods and specifies the terms of their transportation. The holder of the bill of lading has the right to take possession of the goods upon delivery.
• Warehouse receipts: A warehouse receipt is a document issued by a warehouse operator that acknowledges receipt of goods and specifies the terms of their storage. The holder of the warehouse receipt has the right to take possession of the goods upon payment of any outstanding fees.
• Delivery orders: A delivery order is a document issued by a carrier or warehouse operator that authorizes the release of goods to a specified recipient. The holder of the delivery order has the right to take possession of the goods upon presentation of the document.

These examples illustrate how a document of title can be used to transfer ownership or possession of goods from one party to another. By holding the document, the holder has the right to take possession of the goods and dispose of them as authorized by the document.