What must be done with all original bills of lading at the destination?

The requirement to surrender original bills of lading back to the shipping line for delivery is rooted in the role that this document plays in the shipping process. The bill of lading is not just a receipt for the goods but also a vital document of title. It allows the holder to claim the cargo at its destination.

When the cargo arrives, the carrier needs to ensure that the person claiming the goods is entitled to them. By surrendering the original bills of lading, it confirms that the correct party is in possession of the documents that grant them ownership of the cargo. This process helps facilitate the legal transfer of ownership and ensures that the shipping line maintains security against potential disputes or claims over the cargo.

In contrast, other options do not align with the established practices regarding the handling of original bills of lading. Copying and burning them disregards their importance as legal documents. Keeping them with the cargo could lead to confusion and disrupt clear ownership transfer. Discarding them after use undermines their role in the shipping process and could create significant legal and logistical complications.