Bill of Lading (BOL)
Legal document issued by a carrier to a shipper acknowledging receipt of cargo.
Detailed Explanation
A Bill of Lading (BOL) is one of the most important documents in shipping. It serves three main functions: 1) a receipt for the goods shipped, 2) evidence of the contract of carriage, and 3) a document of title (ownership) for the goods. It must accompany the shipped goods and be signed by authorized representatives.