Guide · Trucking paperwork

Bill of lading: meaning, contents and types

A bill of lading (BOL) is the shipping document that goes with the freight: it records what was tendered, from whom and to whom, and is signed at pickup and at delivery. For interstate (or foreign) trucking, federal rules require for-hire motor carriers to issue a receipt or bill of lading showing the consignor and consignee, origin and destination, number of packages, a description of the freight, and its weight or volume where that affects the rate.

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What a bill of lading must contain (US interstate)

Source: 49 CFR 373.101 (eCFR), read on 16 October 2026. The carrier must also keep a record of this information under 49 CFR part 379. This is general information, not legal advice.

  • Names of consignor (shipper) and consignee (receiver)
  • Origin and destination points
  • Number of packages
  • Description of the freight
  • Weight, volume or measurement, if it is used to rate the freight

What a BOL does in practice

  • Receipt: the driver signs that the listed freight was loaded, noting any visible damage or shortage.
  • Shipping instructions: stops, references, seal number and special handling.
  • Proof of delivery: the receiver signs, and the signed copy is what brokers usually need for payment.

Straight and order bills of lading

In US trucking practice, truckload freight usually moves on a straight (non-negotiable) bill of lading, consigned to a named receiver. An order (negotiable) bill of lading can be transferred and is used mainly in trade finance and ocean shipping.

Before the driver signs

  • Count pieces and compare them with the BOL.
  • Note visible damage or shortages on the BOL before signing. If the driver could not watch the loading or count the freight, the BOL should say “shipper load and count” (SLC).
  • Write down the seal number and check it at delivery.
  • Keep a photo of the signed BOL at pickup and delivery.

Frequently asked questions

What is a bill of lading in trucking?

The document that goes with the freight: a receipt for the goods, the shipping instructions and, once signed by the receiver, the proof of delivery.

Who issues the bill of lading?

Usually the shipper prepares it and the carrier signs it at pickup; federal rules require for-hire motor carriers to issue a receipt or bill of lading for interstate freight (49 CFR 373.101).

What is the difference between a bill of lading and a rate confirmation?

The bill of lading describes the freight and travels with it; the rate confirmation is between broker and carrier and sets the price.

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Reviewed by transport specialists (owner confirmation, 2026-10-16)

Facts on this page last checked 2026-10-16.