Free Bill of Lading Template
Download our FMCSA-compliant Bill of Lading template used by shippers, carriers, and brokers across the country. Fill in your details below and get instant access.
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What's Included in the Template
Our BOL template covers every field required for domestic freight shipments, formatted for easy completion and carrier acceptance.
Shipper & Consignee Info
Pre-formatted fields for shipper name, address, consignee details, and third-party billing — all FMCSA-compliant.
Freight Description Section
Columns for piece count, HM (hazmat), description of articles, weight, and freight class with NMFC codes.
Special Instructions Block
Dedicated area for delivery appointment times, temperature requirements, inside delivery, liftgate, and other accessorials.
Carrier & Driver Acknowledgment
Signature lines for shipper, carrier driver, and consignee with date/time fields for pickup and delivery confirmation.
PRO & PO Number Fields
Tracking reference fields for PRO number, purchase order, BOL number, and customer reference — critical for freight payment.
Terms & Conditions
Standard carrier liability terms, declared value, and COD collection instructions per 49 CFR 373 requirements.
Shipping Best Practices
6 Tips for Filling Out a Bill of Lading Correctly
Double-Check Freight Class
Incorrect freight class is the #1 cause of re-bills. Use the NMFC classification guide or our freight class calculator to verify your class before the carrier picks up.
List Every Handling Unit
Count pallets, not cases. If you have 12 cases on 2 pallets, list 2 handling units. Carriers charge by pallet position, and discrepancies cause accessorial charges.
Include Accurate Weight
Weigh your freight on a certified scale. Estimated weights lead to re-weighs at the terminal, and carriers charge $50-$150 per re-weigh plus the rate difference.
Mark Hazmat Clearly
If any item requires a hazmat placard, check the HM column and include the UN number, proper shipping name, hazard class, and packing group. Missing hazmat info can shut down a shipment at the dock.
Note All Accessorials Upfront
Liftgate, inside delivery, residential delivery, limited access — if it applies, write it on the BOL. Surprise accessorials cost 2-3x more than pre-quoted ones.
Keep a Copy for Your Records
Print three copies: one for the shipper, one travels with the freight, and one for the consignee. The signed POD (proof of delivery) copy is your legal proof the shipment was delivered.
Want a deeper dive into Bills of Lading? Read our complete Bill of Lading guide covering types, legal requirements, and common mistakes shippers make.
Common Questions
Bill of Lading FAQs
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