What is a Bill of Lading and what data does it contain?

A Bill of lading (also known as BOL) is a legal document between the shipper of the goods and the carrier detailing the cargo being shipped, along with the origin and destination of the shipment. This document is also used as a receipt of the shipment upon delivery at the predefined destination.

Data fields on a typical bill of lading include the consigner (the name of the shipper and their address), the consignee (the receiver of the goods), the shipment date, the description of the shipment, its classification, quantity, weight and value.

The bill of lading is among a number documents required in a shipment, as specified by customs authorities. The others include the policy of insurance, the commercial invoice and the certificate of origin.