What is a Mate’s Receipt ?

A Mate’s receipt (MR) is a receipt issued and signed by the chief mate of the ship for goods received on board. MR is nowadays replaced by a modern document called the Standard Shipping Note (SSN), but can still be seen in conventional trade like general cargo, dry bulk or tanker.

The information in both the MR should be identical to that of the B/L. the MR should be completed from the ship’s tally and show the actual quantity and condition of the cargo as received. When the condition of cargo justifies it, the M/R should be remarked as ‘torn bags’, ‘stained bales’ or ‘rust drums’ etc.

• Should there be a difference in the tally of the ship and the shipper, MR should reflect the smaller of the two figures with the remark that “X more bales in dispute, if onboard to be delivered”, X being the difference in the tally figures.
• MR is normally on a shipowner’s format and made in triplicate.

The original is given to the shipper, the 2nd given to the agent and the 3rd left in the book of MR to be referred toat the time of issuance of the B/L.

Purpose of Mate’s Receipt?

A mate’s receipt is a document that acknowledges the receipt of goods on board a ship. It is usually issued by the ship’s officer, known as the mate, who is responsible for cargo handling and stowage. The mate’s receipt serves as evidence that the cargo has been loaded on board the vessel, and it is a crucial document in international trade.

In maritime law, the mate’s receipt is considered a prima facie evidence of the quantity, quality, and condition of the cargo at the time of loading. This means that it is presumed to be correct unless proven otherwise. As such, the mate’s receipt is an important document for both the shipper and the consignee, as it provides a record of the cargo’s condition and serves as proof of delivery.

The mate’s receipt contains important information, including the name of the vessel, the port of loading, the port of discharge, the date of loading, and the description of the cargo. It also includes details of the cargo’s weight, measurement, and condition. The mate’s receipt is usually issued in duplicate, with one copy being retained by the ship and the other copy being given to the shipper.

In addition to serving as proof of delivery, the mate’s receipt is also used for customs clearance and insurance purposes. Customs authorities may require a copy of the mate’s receipt as proof of the cargo’s origin and value. Insurance companies may also require a copy of the mate’s receipt as proof of the cargo’s condition at the time of loading.

It is important to note that the mate’s receipt is not a negotiable document. It cannot be used as a title to the goods or transferred to another party. However, it can be used as collateral for financing or as evidence in legal disputes.

In conclusion, the mate’s receipt is a crucial document in international trade, serving as proof of delivery and providing important information about the cargo. It is a legal document that is recognized in maritime law and is used for customs clearance and insurance purposes. As such, it is essential for both shippers and consignees to ensure that the mate’s receipt is accurate and complete.