Is it a requirement that ocean carriers obtain B/L instructions at least three days in advance?

The correct response indicates that it is not a requirement for ocean carriers to obtain Bill of Lading (B/L) instructions at least three days in advance. While it is beneficial for planning purposes to have these instructions well in advance, the actual requirement can vary based on multiple factors, such as the policies of specific carriers or the nature of the shipment itself.

Many carriers may request B/L instructions ahead of time to ensure that the documentation aligns with their scheduling and operations. However, this does not mean there is a strict regulatory mandate that all ocean carriers must adhere to for every shipment. Consequently, the timing for obtaining these instructions can be flexible and is often based on logistical considerations rather than fixed rules.

Additionally, shipment urgencies may necessitate last-minute instructions, demonstrating that a standardized three-day advance requirement does not universally apply across all scenarios. Therefore, the indication that it is false aligns with the understanding that while strategic, three days in advance is not an uncompromising prerequisite in the shipping industry.