When you ship a vehicle, the most important document you’ll handle isn’t the quote, the receipt, or even the insurance policy—it’s the Bill of Lading (BOL). This single document acts as your official receipt, your condition report, and your proof in the rare case something goes wrong. Understanding how it works (and how to use it correctly) can save you time, money, and stress.
A Bill of Lading is a written record created at pickup and finalized at delivery. It confirms that the carrier received your vehicle and documents its condition at both ends of the journey. You and the driver review and sign it at pickup; you’ll do the same at delivery to acknowledge condition and completion.
Vehicle details: year, make, model, VIN, mileage
Pickup and delivery locations and dates
Your name and the carrier’s information
A condition report with diagrams/notes for dents, scratches, chips, or mechanical issues
Signatures from the driver and the customer (or their authorized representative)
You’ll encounter two formats. Both are valid—what matters is accuracy and completeness.
Paper BOL
Handwritten, often on carbon copy forms
Simple and familiar, but handwriting can be hard to read
Photos must be taken separately and stored by you and/or the carrier
Electronic BOL (eBOL)
Completed on a tablet or phone via an app
Allows embedded photos, timestamps, GPS, and digital signatures
Easier to share and retrieve during a claim
Pro Tip: Before your pickup day, verify with your broker whether your assigned carrier uses paper or electronic BOL, and how you’ll receive your copy (email, portal link, photo of the paper form, etc.). That way you know exactly what to expect and where to find your documentation later.
If a damage claim is ever filed, insurance adjusters will compare the pickup BOL (pre-transport condition) against the delivery BOL (post-transport condition). If damage isn’t noted at delivery—or the pickup condition wasn’t documented thoroughly—your claim becomes harder to prove. In practice, if it isn’t on the BOL, it’s treated as if it didn’t happen.
Prep the vehicle
Remove personal items and toll tags; fold in mirrors; note existing quirks (e.g., weak battery).
Wash the exterior so pre-existing blemishes are visible.
Be present—or power of attorney
If you can’t be there, appoint someone you trust. They must know to review and sign the BOL carefully.
Walk the car with the driver
At pickup and again at delivery, do a slow, methodical walk-around.
Look at common impact zones: bumper corners, lower rocker panels, wheel lips, hood and roof edges.
Document everything
Take your own photos and short videos at pickup and delivery (wide angles + close-ups).
Make sure the driver’s notes match what you see. If there’s disagreement, note it on the BOL before signing.
Match mileage and accessories
Verify odometer, spare keys, accessories (chargers, removable spoilers), ground clearance notes.
At delivery: inspect before signing
Don’t feel rushed. If you see new damage, note it on the delivery BOL before you sign.
Photograph the area again and notify your broker immediately so timelines are met for filing.
Rushing the inspection: Five careful minutes can prevent a five-week dispute.
Assuming photos aren’t needed: Your images support what’s written on the BOL.
Signing with blanks: Ensure condition sections are complete before you sign.
Misplacing your copy: Save the paper or eBOL in two places (email + cloud folder).
Is an eBOL better than paper?
It’s not “better,” but it’s often easier to retrieve and can include embedded photos and timestamps, which helps in claims.
What if I find damage after I sign the delivery BOL?
Report it immediately to your broker and the carrier, but understand it’s more difficult to prove after you’ve signed “received in good condition.” Always inspect first.
What if my car is inoperable?
Note it clearly on the pickup BOL. In-op vehicles often require special equipment or extra time; documenting this up front helps avoid disputes.
Whether it’s paper or electronic, the BOL is your primary protection in auto transport. Treat it like you would a closing document on a house: review it carefully, make sure it reflects reality, and verify with your broker how the BOL will be handled before pickup. A thorough BOL process is the difference between a smooth delivery and a stressful claim.
Questions or need help shipping a vehicle?
Bigfella Auto Express
Email: support@bigfellaautoexpress.com
Phone: 346-536-8700
Houston, TX
Business Hours: Mon–Fri, 7:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. CT (Sat by appointment)