Which document serves as a basis for filing freight claims when goods are lost or damaged?

The bill of lading is the correct document that serves as a basis for filing freight claims when goods are lost or damaged. This document acts as a legal contract between the shipper and the carrier, outlining the details of the shipment, including what goods are being transported, the destination, and the terms of transport.

In the event of loss or damage, the bill of lading provides essential evidence of the condition of the goods at the time of loading and the carrier's responsibility for them during transit. It also includes important information such as signatures and any notations about the condition of the goods when they were handed over to the carrier, which can support claims made for damages or losses.

While other documents listed may relate to the shipping process, they do not carry the same level of legal authority or detail necessary to substantiate a freight claim effectively. The delivery receipt, for example, confirms that the receiver has received the goods, but does not address the condition at the point of transfer. The carrier freight bill relates more to payment for services rendered, and the shipping manifest provides a list of the items being shipped without necessarily detailing the conditions of those items. Thus, the bill of lading is crucial for claims related to lost or damaged goods.