In plain English
A BOL lists the shipper, consignee, carrier, a description of the freight, number of pieces, weight, freight class, special instructions and the freight payment terms (prepaid, collect or third party). The driver signs it at pickup and the consignee signs at delivery.
It is the main document in a freight claim, because it records what was handed to the carrier and what was received.
Why it matters when you ship
Most post-pickup price changes trace back to the BOL: if the weight, dimensions or class on it differ from what the carrier finds at the terminal, the carrier re-rates the shipment. Take care to fill it out accurately and keep a signed copy.
Example
A shipper fills out a BOL with 3 pallets, 1,500 lb, class 70, liftgate required at delivery. The driver signs it at pickup and a copy travels with the freight.
Related terms
Learn more
Bill of lading (BOL): common questions
Is a BOL the same as a receipt?
It includes a receipt, but it is also the contract of carriage and a record of the freight’s condition when handed over.
Why does the BOL matter for claims?
Because it states what was tendered and how it looked. Without a signed BOL and notes on any damage, claims are hard to prove.
Cite this page
Cite as: Transportli, “Bill of Lading (BOL): Meaning and What It Includes”, https://transportli.com/glossary/bill-of-lading/, updated November 11, 2026.
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