Final answer:
The bill of lading is the document that initiates shipment of goods and provides important information about the merchandise.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct answer is A) bill of lading. A bill of lading is a document that serves as evidence of a contract of carriage and receipt of goods. It is used in the shipment of goods and provides important information such as the description of the merchandise, the quantity shipped, and the customer name and address.