What is the type of shipping paper used when transporting a product by various modes of transportation?

A bill of lading serves as a fundamental document in the transportation of goods across various modes. It primarily functions as a contract between the shipper and carrier, detailing the specifics of the shipment, such as the type, quantity, and destination of the goods. The bill of lading also acts as a receipt, confirming that the carrier has received the cargo. This legal document is critical for ensuring the proper handling and transfer of cargo during transportation, providing clarity to all parties involved in the shipping process.

In contrast, a manifest is typically used for a consolidated shipment, summarizing multiple shipments under a single document. A shipping invoice outlines the billing and payment details for a specific shipment but does not replace the contractual nature of a bill of lading. A waybill, while similar to a bill of lading, is more common in certain types of transport like rail or air but may not convey the same legal implications as a bill of lading. These distinctions highlight the importance of using a bill of lading in various transportation scenarios, making it the correct choice here.