A bill of lading should describe the shipment the carrier is actually collecting. Copying an old document can leave the wrong destination, billing party, quantity, or handling instructions on a new load. Reconcile the paperwork with the final booking before pickup.

Check addresses and reference numbers

Verify shipper and receiver names, actual facility addresses, contacts, and relevant pickup or purchase-order references. Distinguish the receiving entrance from a corporate billing address.

Confirm the party responsible for freight charges and any carrier-required account information. Have the booking contact resolve uncertainty before the document is issued.

Use a specific cargo description

Include the prepared shipping units, piece or pallet counts as appropriate, packaged weights, and a useful description of the contents. For LTL, confirm any required classification information with the appropriate resource.

If the shipment includes both pallets and loose pieces, describe both clearly. A shorthand entry such as “one load” may not provide the information needed to reconcile the actual pickup.

Match instructions to accepted services

Check appointment, liftgate, temperature, orientation, and other handling instructions against the booked service. A note on the paperwork does not by itself establish that the carrier accepted additional equipment or work.

Specialized shipments may require additional documents. The responsible shipper should prepare any applicable hazardous-material or other regulated information rather than treating this general checklist as a complete documentation standard.

Reconcile changes at loading

If the actual count, weight, or cargo changes, notify the broker or carrier and correct the documents through the agreed process. Record visible exceptions and obtain the appropriate pickup acknowledgment.

Preserve the final version and share it with the parties who need it. A draft saved before production finished should not remain the only record when a different quantity actually departed.

Reference: FedEx Freight bill of lading instructions.

Related shipping guides

Dry Van Truckload Quotes: How to Compare the Full Shipping Cost
Airport Freight Pickup: What Your Trucking Quote Needs Before Dispatch

Plan your shipment with 2A Logistics

Have a shipment ready to book? Send the cargo details and receiving instructions to 2A Logistics so the quote and transport plan use the same information.

Request a Freight Quote or call 260-408-6809.