What is true about ocean bills of lading in most cases?

The assertion that ocean bills of lading do not function as contracts of carriage is not accurate. In fact, ocean bills of lading primarily serve as contracts between the shipper and the carrier, outlining the terms under which the cargo is transported. They establish the responsibilities of both the carrier and the shipper, ensuring that the goods are transported safely from the point of origin to the destination.

In most scenarios, ocean bills of lading will include details such as the description of the goods, the shipping route, and the payment terms, but their primary purpose is indeed to act as a contract of carriage. This is a fundamental principle in international shipping and logistics, where the rights and obligations of both parties need to be clearly defined.

The other choices suggest limited functionalities or incorrect uses of ocean bills of lading. While they are used primarily for international shipments, they can also serve domestic shipping needs in some contexts. Furthermore, asserting that they outline only terms of payment overlooks the comprehensive nature of these documents. Therefore, the correct understanding of ocean bills of lading is that they are indeed contracts of carriage, integral to the shipping process in maritime transport.