What must a consignee determine if a portion of the cargo is missing upon arrival under a single through intermodal bill of lading?

When a consignee discovers that a portion of the cargo is missing upon arrival under a single through intermodal bill of lading, it is crucial for them to determine when during transport the loss occurred. This determination is essential because it helps establish liability, which can influence who is responsible for the loss and how to proceed with claims for the missing cargo.

Knowing when the loss occurred can guide the consignee on the appropriate steps to take. For instance, if the loss transpired during a specific leg of the journey, it may implicate the terminal or carrier responsible for that segment of transportation. This information is instrumental in engaging the correct parties in potential claims and resolving the issue effectively.

While identifying which transit country is responsible, the cause of damage, or any carrier negligence might be relevant later in the claims process, the immediate action after discovering the missing cargo is to establish the timeline of the loss. This understanding lays the groundwork for further investigation and resolution of the cargo discrepancy.