If you can’t produce the right paper, you can’t get paid or settle a dispute. These three documents each answer a different question.
Rate confirmation: what did we agree?
The rate confirmation is issued by the broker to the carrier before the load moves. It records the load details, the rate and the terms for that shipment.
Bill of lading: what was shipped?
The bill of lading (BOL) travels with the freight. It is usually issued by the shipper and signed at pickup. It serves as a receipt for the goods and sets out what they are, how many there are and where they’re going.
Check the shipper and consignee, piece count, weight, freight description, and any reference numbers. Make sure the carrier named on it is the one you booked. A different name is a warning sign of double brokering.
Proof of delivery: did it arrive?
The proof of delivery (POD) is signed by the receiver at delivery. It’s often the signed BOL itself. It shows who received the freight and when, and records any damage or shortage.
Look for a legible signature and printed name, the date and time, and any notes such as "short 2 cartons" or "damaged". A note like that can affect both your invoice and a claim.
At a glance
- Rate con: broker and carrier; agreed before pickup; covers price and terms.
- BOL: shipper and carrier; signed at pickup; covers what is shipped.
- POD: carrier and receiver; signed at delivery; covers what arrived.
Before you bill
- Compare the POD with the BOL for pieces and notes.
- Check any accessorials have proof. See accessorial charges.
- Match the reference numbers your shipper needs.
- File everything with the load. Brokers have record-keeping duties too.
In Juno, documents are filed on the load, with a record of who added each one and when.
Common questions
Is a bill of lading the same as a proof of delivery?
Not exactly. The BOL records the shipment at pickup. A POD confirms delivery. A BOL signed by the receiver is often used as the POD.
Who provides the bill of lading?
Usually the shipper, though it depends on the arrangement.
What should I do if the POD shows damage?
Tell the shipper and carrier straight away, keep the photos and paperwork, and follow the claims process in your agreements.