An alteration or addition to a bill of lading after its issuance by a common carrier, without authorization from the carrier in writing or noted on the bill, is void. However, the original terms of the bill are enforceable.

(Pub. L. 103–272, § 1(e), July 5, 1994, 108 Stat. 1349.)

The word “erasure” is omitted as being included in “alteration”. The words “whatever be the nature and purpose of the change” are omitted as surplus. The word “terms” is substituted for “tenor” for clarity.