Bill of lading field
Who signs a bill of lading?
Two people sign. The shipper signs to certify the goods are properly described, packaged, marked and labelled — and for hazmat, that they are in proper condition to transport. The driver signs at pickup, and that signature is the carrier's receipt for the freight.
Why it matters
The driver's signature is the moment the document stops being paperwork and becomes a contract of carriage. Before it, you have a form. After it, you have evidence of what the carrier took, in what condition, and when.
The mistake that costs money
Not keeping the signed copy. The signed bill of lading is the evidence in any claim, and "the carrier has it" is not a position you want to be arguing from six weeks later.
Worth knowing
- The carrier signature box is left blank when you print. The driver fills it in at pickup.
- Keep your signed copy — photograph it at the dock if nothing else.
- The consignee signs at delivery, and that signature is the delivery receipt.
- Note damage or shortage on the delivery receipt BEFORE signing it. A clean signature makes a concealed-damage claim much harder.