Bill of Lading Template

A Bill of Lading (BOL) template is a standardized document used in freight shipping to outline the terms of a shipment between a shipper and a carrier. It serves as a receipt of goods, a contract of carriage, and a document of title. A properly completed form ensures that shipments are accurately recorded and legally protected.

Types of Bill of Lading

• 🔹Straight Bill of Lading: Used when goods are prepaid and consigned to a specific recipient.
• 🔹Order Bill of Lading: Transferable to other parties via endorsement, often used in international shipping.
• 🔹Through Bill of Lading: Covers shipments through multiple carriers and transport modes.

How Our Bill of Lading Template Works

Our template is designed for easy use and includes all necessary fields to ensure compliance. Whether you need a blank Bill of Lading to fill in manually or a printable form, our form is available in PDF format for convenience.

How To Fill Out a Bill of Lading

Using the provided Bill of Lading form, follow these steps to complete it correctly:

1️⃣ Enter shipping details:

• 🔹Ship from: Provide the sender’s name, address, and SID number.
• 🔹Ship to: Include the recipient’s details and location number.

2️⃣ Carrier information:

• 🔹Enter the carrier name, trailer number, seal numbers, SCAC code, and pro number.

3️⃣ Freight charge terms:

• 🔹Choose between prepaid, collect, or third-party billing.
• 🔹Indicate if it’s a master BOL with underlying documents.

4️⃣ Describe shipment details:

• 🔹List the customer order number, number of packages, weight, and indicate if it’s palletized.
• 🔹Provide a detailed commodity description with any hazardous material indicators.

5️⃣ Totals and handling information:

• 🔹Summarize package quantities, types, and weights.
• 🔹Ensure compliance with NMFC classifications for LTL shipments.

6️⃣ Additional shipper information & special instructions:

• 🔹Include any extra details or handling instructions.

Benefits of Using a Printable Bill of Lading Template

• 🔹Time-saving: Quickly fill out and print a standardized Bill of Lading PDF.
• 🔹Accuracy: Ensures correct shipment documentation to avoid disputes.
• 🔹Legal protection: Serves as proof of shipment and contract.
• 🔹Versatility: Supports both paper and electronic Bill of Lading formats.

Frequently Asked Questions

1️⃣  What is a Bill of Lading?

A Bill of Lading form is a legal document that acts as a shipment receipt, a contract of carriage, and a document of title for freight shipments.

2️⃣  How do I customize my Bill of Lading Template?

You can edit our Bill of Lading template by adding company details, shipment descriptions, and payment terms. Our form is available as a PDF for easy modification.

3️⃣  Who is responsible for paying for the Bill of Lading?

Typically, the shipper (seller) provides and covers the cost of the BOL since it serves as both a receipt and proof of ownership for the goods. However, in certain agreements, like an FOB (Free on Board) contract, the buyer may be required to arrange and pay for the BOL instead.

Using our Bill of Lading template, you can streamline your shipping documentation, reduce errors, and ensure compliance with logistics regulations.