What documentation is required (e.g., Bill of Lading)?

Proper documentation ensures smooth pickups, deliveries, customs compliance (for cross-border), and claim protection for both LTL and FTL shipments. We handle most of the prep and guidance, but here's what’s typically required and how it works.

Core Required Documents (all shipments):

• Bill of Lading (BOL)The most important document—acts as a contract of carriage, receipt of goods, and title document.What it includes:

  • Shipper (your company) name/address/phone.

  • Consignee (receiver) name/address/phone.

  • Third-party billing info (if applicable).

  • Origin/destination addresses (including ZIP codes).

  • Number of pieces/pallets, description of goods (accurate commodity name).

  • Total weight (actual, not estimated).

  • Freight class (for LTL only).

  • NMFC item number (for LTL, if known).

  • Special instructions (e.g., liftgate, appointment, hazmat details).

  • Declared value (if higher liability needed).

  • Signatures (shipper at pickup, receiver at delivery).We can generate a pre-filled BOL template for you—just provide the details at booking. Many carriers accept electronic BOLs (eBOL) for faster processing.

Additional Documents by Shipment Type:

• Hazardous Materials (Hazmat)

  • Shipping papers with proper shipping name, UN/NA number, hazard class/division, packing group, quantity, emergency contact.

  • Shipper’s certification statement.

  • Placards/labels on packaging (handled by shipper/carrier).We’ll confirm requirements and ensure carrier compliance.

• Cross-Border (Canada/Mexico)

  • Commercial Invoice (detailed: item description, HS code, value, country of origin, Incoterms).

  • NAFTA/USMCA Certificate of Origin (if claiming preferential duty).

  • Canada Customs Invoice (CCI) for Canada shipments > CAD $2,500 (optional but helpful).

  • Packing list (itemized breakdown).

  • Power of Attorney (for customs broker if we arrange).We coordinate with brokerage partners and guide you on exact forms.

• High-Value or Special Freight

  • Declared value statement on BOL.

  • Certificate of Insurance (if shipper-provided cargo coverage).

  • Photos of load/packaging (recommended for claims protection).

• Other Occasional Documents

  • PO number or customer reference (for receiver matching).

  • Delivery receipt / Proof of Delivery (POD) — signed at delivery (digital or paper).

  • Temperature logs (for reefer loads).

  • Permits (oversize/overweight, hazmat-specific routing).

How we make it easy:

• At booking/quote, tell us the shipment type (standard, hazmat, cross-border, etc.)—we’ll list exactly what’s needed and send templates/forms.

• For most domestic loads, a properly completed BOL is sufficient—we can create, email, or upload it for you.

• Keep copies: Always retain your version (digital or printed) for records/claims.

Pro tips:

• Accuracy matters—mismatches between BOL and actual freight (weight, description, count) can trigger reweigh/reclass fees or claim denials.

• Describe goods specifically (avoid vague terms like “freight” or “general merchandise”)—helps with classification and customs.

• For international/cross-border, start paperwork early—delays at border often stem from incomplete docs.

Need a BOL template, help with hazmat papers, or a question about your current document set up?

Just share your shipment details (origin/dest, commodity, value, any special notes)—we’ll prep everything and walk you through it.