Core Domestic Freight Documents
What is a Bill of Lading (BOL) and why is it important?
The BOL is the core freight document. It serves as receipt for goods, contract of carriage, and document of title. It lists shipper and consignee information, pickup and delivery addresses, description of goods with weight, dimensions, and class for LTL, plus any special instructions. The driver signs at pickup to acknowledge receipt, and the receiver signs at delivery. Carriers bill from the BOL details, and it is the reference for disputes or claims. Ensure it is accurate, provided at pickup, and kept on file.
International Documentation
What documents are required for international freight shipping?
Typical documents include:
- Commercial Invoice describing goods and value.
- Packing List with contents, weights, and dimensions.
- Certificate of Origin when required or to claim trade-agreement benefits.
- Export Documentation such as electronic export filings and shipper’s instructions when applicable.
- Transportation Documents such as air waybill or ocean bill of lading; bookings or manifests for container moves.
- Specialized Papers for goods like hazmat, licensed products, or insured shipments.
What is an SLI?
A Shipper’s Letter of Instruction tells a forwarder how to handle an export: who the parties are, incoterm, values, HS codes, license info, insurance, and whether to file export data.
What is an HS code and why is it important?
A six-digit international product classification used to assess duties, control measures, and statistics. Accurate HS codes prevent delays and over- or under-payment of duty.
What is an Importer of Record and can a forwarder serve as IOR?
The IOR is the responsible party that ensures compliance and pays duties. A forwarder usually does not act as IOR unless contracted to do so in specific programs. Typically the buyer or a local entity is IOR.
Customs Issues
What happens if my shipment is held in customs?
Your broker resolves the issue: respond quickly with documents, pay duties/taxes, and comply with any exams. Common causes: missing or inconsistent invoices, wrong HS codes, restricted goods.