---
title: Everything You Need to Know about Bills of Lading
description: Bills of Lading are the single most important document in all of freight shipping, but why is that?
---

[Freightcom Blog | Freightcom | SHIPPING.SIMPLIFIED. ](https://www.freightcom.com/blog)

# [Everything You Need to Know about Bills of Lading](https://www.freightcom.com/blog/everything-you-need-to-know-about-bills-of-lading)

 Written by [Brandon Draga](https://www.freightcom.com/blog/author/brandon-draga) | Jan 26, 2022 5:32:41 PM

When it comes to an industry as large and complex as freight shipping, there are **all manner of documentation** that ensures the safe and efficient movement of goods all across the world. At the core of all of this is the **Bill of Lading**, or BOL.

Even the most novice of freight shippers will have at least some experience with BOLs, and yet it’s easy to lose sight of **just how important a role they play** in the shipping journey.

We’ve talked on the blog before about [important shipping documents](https://www.freightcom.com/blog/5-important-documents-for-shipping-freight?hsLang=en), but today we’re going to dive into what a BOL is, and why it just might be the **most important shipping document you use**.

 

## What is a BOL?

At its core, **the BOL is a contract** between a shipper, a carrier, and a consignee agreeing upon goods being transported from one point to another.

For example, if a buyer requests four pallets of fertilizer, the shipper will mark the quantity down on the BOL. From there, **the carrier will verify that the information** on the BOL is accurate at pickup, and finally, the buyer will do the same upon receipt of the goods, and proceed to issue a cheque payable to the shipper.

This is, of course, **only one facet of the BOLs role** in the shipping journey. To better understand how else a BOL is used, let’s take a closer look at the information you can expect to find on one.

 

## What Information does a BOL Contain?

Simply put, a BOL contains all the information necessary to **complete a shipment safely and successfully**.

What does this include? To start, the names and addresses of both the shipper and the consignee, as well as the shipment date.

Further, the BOL will include **the details of the contents of the shipment**, including detailed descriptions of all products contained, the quantity of said products, their weight, and the overall value of the shipment.

Finally, the BOL will contain **information pertinent to the act of moving the shipment**, such as the packaging materials used, as well as any special handling instructions that the carrier requires.

 

 

## Why are BOLs Important?

As mentioned above, a BOL is essentially a contract for a shipment. This contract is three-fold:

- It is a receipt for the goods shipped.
- It is a contract for the service provided by the carrier.
- It is a document of title.

Because a BOL is essentially a contract between the parties involved with a shipment, **it is treated as legally binding**. This becomes especially important in the case of disputes between any of the parties**. A signed BOL is treated as proof of liability**, and as such each party assumes liability for the information on the BOL which applies to them.

## How do BOLs Function Internationally?

Any time a legal document crosses international borders, **additional rules will apply**. This is no exception when concerning a BOL.

Ensuring that the BOL is in the hands of the consignee in a timely manner can take many forms. Most commonly a shipper will send an **express bill of lading**, or a seaway bill, in advance of the shipment. This allows the consignee to settle the invoice in advance of a shipment arriving, which allows the **freight to be released upon arrival**, along with the original BOL.

In regards to the contents of the BOL itself, when shipping internationally, it is important to note that the information on the BOL must legally **comply with the standards outlined in the consignee’s country** of operation.

 

## Manage all Your Shipping Needs Easily with Freightcom

No matter how much you know about the inner workings of it, **freight shipping can be a hassle**. Let Freightcom make it easier for you every step of the way!

Our all-in-one platform provides **unbeatable real-time rates on LTL** from North America’s largest carriers, streamlining the process to help you focus on running your business. **Contact one of our shipping experts **Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm EST at 1-877-335-8740 or by email at [sales@freightcom.com](mailto:sales@freightcom.com) and see how Freightcom can help you ship smarter today**!**

[View full post](https://www.freightcom.com/blog/everything-you-need-to-know-about-bills-of-lading)

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