BOL: Bill of Lading
The legal shipping document that serves as a contract of carriage, receipt of goods, and title document.
A Bill of Lading (BOL) is the foundational document in freight transportation, serving three functions at once: a contract between shipper and carrier, a receipt confirming the carrier took possession of the goods, and — for straight (non-negotiable) BOLs — a document of title. It records shipper and consignee, commodity description, weight, freight class, and special instructions (e.g., hazmat, freight terms).
Who publishes it
Issued per-shipment by the shipper or carrier; format standards maintained by the NMFTA for LTL.
How to read it
- The freight class and weight declared on the BOL is what the carrier initially rates the shipment against — inaccuracies here are the top cause of reclass and reweigh fees.
- Freight terms on the BOL (prepaid vs. collect, third-party billing) determine who is legally responsible for payment.
- A signed BOL at delivery is proof of delivery; note any damage or shortage on it before the driver leaves, or a later claim becomes far harder to win.
Why it matters
The BOL is the single document referenced in nearly every freight dispute — rate disputes, damage claims, and liability questions all start with what the BOL actually says. Getting class, weight, and terms right on the BOL prevents the majority of downstream billing and claims issues.
Frequently asked questions
Who fills out the Bill of Lading?
Typically the shipper, sometimes with carrier assistance. Accuracy matters — the carrier initially rates and bills the shipment based on what's declared on the BOL.
What should I check before signing a BOL at delivery?
Inspect the shipment for visible damage or shortage before signing. A clean signature confirms the goods arrived in good condition; noting exceptions on the BOL at delivery is often required to preserve a damage claim.
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