Va. Code § 8.7-303: Diversion; reconsignment; change of instructions

(1) Unless the bill of lading otherwise provides, the carrier may deliver the goods to a person or destination other than that stated in the bill or may otherwise dispose of the goods, without liability for misdelivery, on instructions from:(a) the holder of a negotiable bill; or(b) the consignor on a nonnegotiable bill notwithstanding contrary instructions from the consignee; or(c) the consignee on a nonnegotiable bill in the absence of contrary instructions from the consignor, if the goods have arrived at the billed destination or if the consignee is in possession of the tangible bill or in control of the electronic bill; or(d) the consignee on a nonnegotiable bill if he is entitled as against the consignor to dispose of them.(2) Unless such instructions are noted on a negotiable bill of lading, a person to whom the bill is duly negotiated can hold the bailee according to the original terms.1964, c. 219; 2004, c. 200.