What Information Do You Need to Include in a Bill of Lading

A Bill of Lading is used for every piece of cargo that is shipped from one destination to another. A Bill of Lading is used for large shipments that contain multiple items, such as palleted cargo. A carrier will prepare the Bill of Lading and provide it to the company that is shipping the cargo. The Bill of Lading serves to back up the contract already in place between the shipper and the carrier. 

The Purpose of a Bill of Lading

In addition to supporting the original contract, a Bill of Lading also acts as a receipt as the cargo passes from the shipper to the carrier for transportation purposes. A Bill of Lading protects both parties by providing vital information that is required for the cargo to pass easily through both domestic and international ports.

What Information Is Included?

A Bill of Lading includes a wealth of information about the cargo it represents. It will contain a detailed listing of both the type of goods the shipment contains as well as the quantity. It will also provide details about the destination of the shipment, such as where it should be taken and what type of delivery window is available. Some companies may not accept deliveries on a 24-hour basis. They will offer delivery windows instead.

If you work in the shipping and receiving industry, one of the first things you will learn is how to read a Bill of Lading. Knowing how to read and understand this information will make your job go much smoother and will expedite the shipping process. It also ensures that the shipment will be delivered on time and according to the shipper’s directions.