---
title: Bill-of-lading (BOL or B/L)
description: Bill of lading - BOL
---

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# Bill-of-lading (BOL or B/L)

## Everything you need to know about this important document.

### What is a bill-of-lading (BOL or B/L)?

A BOL, or Bill of Lading, is one of the most important documents in shipping. It serves as a legally binding contract between the shipper, carrier, and receiver that outlines the details of the shipment method, path, and goods. Additionally, it acts as a receipt and provides proof of ownership, ensuring accountability during the entire logistics process.

[View an example digital BOL](https://mothership-bill-of-lading-demo.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/-L_JZc72Pn_qSmenJDRA.pdf).

To access your signed BOL from the Mothership dashboard, follow these steps:

1. Log in to your Mothership dashboard.
2. Locate the relevant shipment using the search option.
3. Navigate to the shipment’s "Documents" or "Paperwork" section.
4. Download the BOL.

     - Note: BOLs from both active and completed shipments can be found in this location.

[Learn how to access and print your BOL](https://help.mothership.com/find-and-print-your-bill-of-lading-bol?hsLang=en).

### Ensuring External Paperwork like a BOL is Signed at Pickup

In cases where your shipment was not booked with the CFS (Carrier-Facilitated Shipping) accessorial, Mothership cannot guarantee the handling of external paperwork like the BOL. Here’s how you can ensure proper documentation:

1. **Add the CFS Accessorial**:

     - This option (with an associated fee) enables Mothership to coordinate with carriers so that necessary documentation is signed at pickup.
2. **Upload Documents Electronically**:

     - Upload the required BOL or external paperwork to the shipment in the Mothership dashboard by contacting and sending to Support.
     - Once a carrier is allocated, Mothership Support will ensure the documentation reaches the carrier electronically.

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