How to Fill Out a Bill of Lading Form for Freight Shipping
Resources > How to Fill Out a Bill of Lading Form for Freight Shipping
Confused about how to fill out a bill of lading? Our step-by-step guide simplifies the process, helping you prevent errors and shipping delays.
Published: February 24, 2025
Last Modified:
February 24, 2025
Author: Joe Weaver
Filling out a bill of lading (BoL) is about as exciting as it sounds. However, doing so properly is a fundamental element of record keeping in the freight shipping process.
Key Takeaways
A bill of lading must contain contact information for the shipper, carrier, receiver, and any associated third parties, such as brokers.
The freight class and description must also be included on the document, along with any special handling or time-sensitivity requirements.
Certain freight requires additional information on the BoL, such as the hazard class and emergency contacts for hazardous materials (hazmat).
Use the information in this article to fill out your bills of lading correctly and avoid costly mistakes.
How to Fill Out a BoL: What Information is Needed?
Filling out a BoL correctly ensures a smooth transportation process and reduces delays. To simplify explaining this process, I’ve broken a standard BoL up into two general categories:
Shipping, billing, and contact information for parties involved in the transaction
Information that applies to the freight itself, such as dimensions and special handling requests
Parties involved in a freight shipping transaction must fill out the following information:
Date of Shipment: When the carrier picks up the freight
Consignee Contact lnfo: Mobile phone and email
Shipper’s Phone Number: Business and/or mobile
Consignee Shipping Info: Name and full address of the individual/company taking ownership of the freight
Shipper Info: Name and full address of the individual or company shipping the freight out
Billing Information: Name and full address of the entity paying for the goods
Hazmat Information: Only applies to hazardous materials
COD Total and Remit-to Information: Only applies to freight shipped cash-on-delivery
Shipper, Purchase Order, and Quote Numbers: Used to verify information like carrier identity and invoice contents
Broker Contact Info: Name, address, and phone number of the freight broker
Before I discuss the particulars of hazmat when it comes to a bill of lading, let’s move on to the second half of the document.
How to Fill Out a Hazmat Bill of Lading
Shipping hazardous materials requires additional documentation to ensure compliance with U.S. federal safety regulations. On top of the previously mentioned information, A hazmat BoL must include the following:
UN/NA Number and Proper Shipping Name: A four-digit identifier for different types of hazardous materials
Hazard Class and Packing Group Details: Indicates the risk level and necessary precautions for handling
Emergency Contact Information: Per DOT regulations, a 24-hour emergency contact must be listed for hazardous shipments
Shipper’s Certification and Signature: Confirms that the hazardous material has been prepared according to applicable regulations
The second half of this document involves describing the freight being shipped and any special handling requirements. Doing so keeps you, your carrier, and your customers on the same page during the shipping process.
Business Critical and Added Services: Including specific delivery times, white glove delivery, and liftgate requirements
Freight Descriptions and Dimensions: Includes number of shipping units, package type (unless bulk), description of articles, NMFC number for LTL shipments, freight class, and weight in lbs
Special Instructions: For service or handling requests beyond what is already offered on the BoL
Agreed Upon Value of Property: When the shipping rate is dependent on the value of the freight itself
Consignor Signature: For shipments that should not be delivered without payment of freight and all other charges made first
Shipped at Shippers Risk: To be checked and signed by the shipper for shipments of unprotected freight
No Canada Customs Documents: Used in certain circumstances when sending freight to Canada, doesn’t apply to strictly domestic shipments
By using the correct shipping terms and contact information when filling out your BoL, you’ll prevent issues such as delays in shipping and freight re-classifications that can cause your shipping costs to increase unexpectedly at the last minute.
Fast and Friendly Freight Shipping From USA Truckload
Freight shipping is a complex process, and keeping proper paperwork is paramount to simplifying communication between all parties involved.
At USA Truckload Shipping, we understand the importance of accurate documentation in logistics. We’re here to help shippers like you looking for expert assistance with this or other aspect of shipping and storing freight.
