Fedex Bill Of Lading Template

Guidelines on Filling in Fedex Bill Of Lading

When shipping goods via FedEx, the Bill of Lading form serves as a crucial document that outlines the details of the shipment, the terms agreed upon between the shipper and the carrier, and the conditions under which the cargo is carried. This document must be accurately completed to ensure that the cargo is handled properly and reaches its destination without any issues. The following steps guide you through the process of filling out a FedEx Bill of Lading form to help make your shipping experience smooth and compliant with all necessary regulations.

1. Date and Purchase Order #: Start by entering the date of shipment and the purchase order number if applicable.
2. Shipper # and Consignee #: Fill in the shipper number and the consignee number provided by FedEx.
3. Service Type: Select the required service type, such as FedEx Freight Priority or FedEx Freight Economy, and indicate if any optional services like A.M. Delivery or Close of Business Delivery are needed.
4. Shipper and Consignee Information: Provide detailed information for both the shipper (from) and the consignee (to), including names, addresses, ZIP codes, and phone numbers.
5. Optional or Additional Service Fees and Charges: If applicable, select any additional services required for your shipment, such as Liftgate or Inside Pickup for the shipper, and Liftgate or Inside Delivery for the consignee.
6. Bill Freight Charges To: If the freight charges are to be billed to a party other than the shipper or consignee, enter the billing party's information, including name, address, and phone number.
7. Special Instructions: Include any special instructions that need to be followed by FedEx for handling the shipment.
8. Handling Unit (H/U) and Packaging Details: Describe the packaging type, contents, any special marks or exceptions, and the weight in pounds. If shipping hazardous materials, mark “X” or “RQ” in the HM column as required, and provide emergency contact information.
9. Declared Value: If applicable, declare the value of the goods being shipped.
10. Shipper Certification: The shipper must sign and date the form, certifying that all information provided is accurate and that the cargo is correctly classified, packaged, marked, and in condition for transport as per regulations.
11. Carrier Certification: This section is for FedEx’s use, where they acknowledge the receipt of the cargo and certify that the necessary emergency response information has been provided or is available on the vehicle.

After completing these steps, your Bill of Lading will be ready for submission to FedEx. It's important to review all entered information for accuracy before finalizing the document, as this ensures the smooth handling and delivery of your shipment. Proper completion and submission of the Bill of Lading protect both the shipper and the consignee by clearly defining the terms of the shipment and responsibilities of all parties involved.

What is the Fedex Bill of Lading form?

A FedEx Bill of Lading is a crucial document used when shipping goods via FedEx Freight services. It serves as a contract between the shipper and FedEx for the transportation of goods. This document records essential details of the shipment, such as the shipper's and consignee's information, the type of service selected (e.g., FedEx Freight® Priority), and special instructions or services required. It also outlines the terms and conditions of the shipment, including liability and charges. Understanding and filling out this form accurately is fundamental to ensuring that goods are shipped effectively and efficiently.

How do I fill out the service type and optional services on the Fedex Bill of Lading form?

To fill out the service type and optional services on the FedEx Bill of Lading form, follow these steps:

1. Select the service type under "REQUIRED" by choosing either FedEx Freight® Priority for faster delivery or FedEx Freight® Economy for less urgent shipments. This choice affects the delivery speed and cost.
2. Under "OPTIONAL," select any additional services you might need for your shipment. Options include:
• A.M. Delivery - Your shipment will arrive in the morning.
• Close of Business Delivery - Your shipment will arrive by the end of the business day.
• Optional or Additional Service Fees and Charges may apply for services like Liftgate, Inside Pickup/Delivery, or Limited Access locations.
3. Make sure to read the terms related to optional services, such as money-back guarantee limitations and additional charges, to understand how they impact your shipment.

What does "Freight charges are PREPAID unless marked collect" mean?

This statement refers to who is responsible for the freight charges. If the shipment is "PREPAID," it means that the shipper, who is sending the goods, has paid FedEx for the shipping costs in advance. On the other hand, if the box indicating charges are to be "collect" is checked, it means that the consignee, or the recipient of the shipment, will be responsible for paying the freight charges upon delivery. The choice between prepaid and collect impacts billing arrangements and who ultimately bears the cost of shipping. It's essential to make this distinction clear on the Bill of Lading to avoid confusion and ensure that the freight charges are billed according to the shipper's intentions.

How should the "SHIPPER CERTIFICATION" section be completed on the FedEx Bill of Lading form?

To complete the "SHIPPER CERTIFICATION" section on the FedEx Bill of Lading form, the shipper must:

1. Ensure that all information provided in the form accurately describes the shipment's contents, including the correct shipping names, classification, packaging, markings, and labels/placards. This is crucial for compliance with regulations and safe transport.
2. Confirm that the goods are in proper condition for transport according to all applicable international and national governmental regulations. This includes ensuring that the shipment does not contain any prohibited items and that all hazardous materials are correctly declared and packaged.
3. Sign and date the certification. This signature confirms that the shipper has complied with all requirements and declarations, making them accountable for the accuracy and legality of the shipment.

1. Not selecting a service type is a common mistake. The form provides options for FedEx Freight® Priority and FedEx Freight® Economy, among other services. Failing to indicate the service type can lead to delays or incorrect handling of the shipment.

2. Omitting contact information for both the shipper and consignee, including phone numbers and ZIP codes, is another frequent oversight. This information is crucial for any necessary communication and ensuring the shipment reaches its intended destination without unnecessary delays.

3. Incorrectly handling the C.O.D. (Cash on Delivery) section can cause financial and logistical complications. Not marking the freight charges as prepaid or collect, failing to specify the type of C.O.D. funds to be collected, and not designating who will pay the C.O.D. fee are errors that can impact the delivery process.

4. Leaving the "Bill of Lading #" blank or incorrect can lead to issues in tracking and processing the shipment. This number is a unique identifier for the transportation of goods, critical for both the shipper and the carrier.

5. A common mistake is not properly indicating if the shipment contains hazardous materials (HM) by marking “X” or “RQ” in the HM column. This is not only a regulatory requirement but also essential for ensuring safe transport of hazardous materials.

6. Many shippers forget to specify the necessary details in the "Special Instructions" section, which might include critical information for handling, delivery, or additional services like Liftgate or Inside Delivery. Neglecting these details can lead to service that does not meet the shipper's needs.

When preparing or receiving a shipment with a FedEx Bill of Lading, it's important to be familiar with other often-used forms and documents. These documents support various shipping and handling requirements, ensuring that the process is smooth and compliant with regulations. Below is a list of forms and documents frequently used alongside the FedEx Bill of Lading.

• Commercial Invoice: This document provides details about the items being shipped, such as their value and description. It is primarily used for international shipments for customs clearance purposes.
• Certificate of Origin: This form certifies the country in which the goods were manufactured. Required by many countries for international trade, the document helps determine import duties and tariffs.
• Shipper's Export Declaration (SED): Required for international shipments valued over a certain amount, this document provides the U.S. Census Bureau with export statistics. It's crucial for regulatory compliance.
• Packing List: Accompanying the shipment, this document details the contents, weight, and package dimensions. It helps all parties verify the cargo and its handling requirements during transit.
• Proof of Delivery: This receipt is signed by the consignee upon delivery, providing confirmation that the shipment has been received as described. It is crucial for dispute resolution and billing processes.
• Hazardous Materials Documentation: For shipments containing dangerous goods, this documentation includes special labels, handling instructions, and safety data sheets. It ensures compliance with local and international regulations on hazardous materials.

Together, these documents form a comprehensive set of paperwork that supports the efficient, safe, and compliant transportation of goods. Each plays a critical role in various aspects of the shipping process, from customs clearance to final delivery verification.

• Commercial Invoice: Like the FedEx Bill of Lading, a Commercial Invoice is pivotal for international shipments, providing detailed information about the shipment's contents, value, and destination. Both documents serve as a critical reference for customs clearance, ensuring that all goods are accurately declared and duties or taxes are correctly assessed.

• Shipping Label: Shipping labels and the FedEx Bill of Lading contain essential shipment details such as sender and receiver information, addresses, and tracking numbers. They both facilitate the efficient handling and routing of packages from origin to destination, enabling carriers and logistics providers to track and manage shipments throughout the delivery process.

• Certificate of Origin: This document, like the FedEx Bill of Lading, is used in international trade. It certifies the country in which the goods were manufactured. Both documents are crucial for customs clearance, helping officials determine applicable tariffs and enforce trade agreements or restrictions.

• Waybill: A waybill, similar to the FedEx Bill of Lading, outlines the details of the shipment's journey, including the origin, destination, and specifics about the goods being shipped. Both documents act as a receipt between the carrier and the shipper, providing a roadmap for the shipment's route and handling requirements.

• Cargo Manifest: The cargo manifest lists all the goods being transported on a carrier, akin to how the FedEx Bill of Lading includes descriptions of the items being shipped, their weight, and other specific details. Both are used by carriers to keep track of shipments and by customs for processing and clearance.

• Packing List: A packing list and the FedEx Bill of Lading complement each other by detailing the contents of a shipment. While the Bill of Lading focuses on the terms of shipping and legal aspects, the packing list describes the quantities, descriptions, and weights of the goods, aiding in the checking and unloading process.

When filling out the FedEx Bill of Lading form, it's important to adhere to the specified guidelines to ensure the accuracy and legality of the document. Below are key dos and don'ts to consider:

Do:

• Provide complete and accurate information: Ensure all required fields are filled in, including ZIP codes, phone numbers, and accurate addresses for both the shipper and consignee.
• Select the correct service type: Clearly mark whether you require FedEx Freight® Priority or FedEx Freight® Economy services, along with any optional services like A.M. Delivery or Close of Business Delivery.
• Specify freight charges: Indicate if freight charges are prepaid or collect, and if C.O.D. (Cash on Delivery) is applicable, ensure the C.O.D. amount and payee details are precisely recorded.
• Accurately describe the shipment: List the nature and quantity of the items being shipped, ensuring the description matches the actual contents and all hazardous materials are correctly identified and marked.

Don't:

• Omit contact information: Failing to include contact details for both the shipper and consignee can lead to delays or complications in shipping and delivery.
• Ignore the C.O.D. section if applicable: If choosing Cash on Delivery, don't forget to prominently mark the "C.O.D." box and specify the collection method and responsible party for the C.O.D. fee.
• Neglect special instructions: If your shipment requires special handling or delivery instructions, ensure this section is not overlooked to prevent mishandling.
• Assume liability coverage: Do not presume full coverage for your shipment; decide if additional Excess Liability Coverage is necessary based on the value and nature of your goods.

• One common misconception is that the FedEx Bill of Lading is only used for international shipments. While it is important for international shipments, it is also utilized for domestic shipping within the United States to document the details of the freight services.

• Another misconception is that the form cannot be modified once submitted. In practice, corrections can typically be made if needed, though it can complicate the process and may require additional approvals or notifications.

• Many believe that the Bill of Lading must always be printed and physically presented. However, FedEx allows for the use of electronic Bills of Lading, streamlining the process and promoting environmental sustainability.

• There is a misconception that the Bill of Lading is an optional document. It is, in fact, a required document for all FedEx freight shipments because it acts as a receipt of freight services and a contract between the shipper and carrier.

• Some people think that the FedEx Bill of Lading form is complicated and requires extensive shipping knowledge to complete. The form is designed to be user-friendly, and assistance is available through FedEx customer service for those who have questions.

• It's commonly misunderstood that if the freight charges are marked as prepaid, the shipper won't incur any additional costs. Prepaid indicates the method of payment at the time of shipping, but additional charges may apply based on actual shipment details versus what was estimated.

• There's a notion that the Bill of Lading is the only document necessary for freight shipments. Though crucial, depending on the nature and destination of the shipment, other documents like commercial invoices or export forms may also be required.

• Many believe the shipper's and consignee's account numbers are optional. While the form can be processed without them, including these numbers ensures that service charges are billed accurately and can expedite the shipment process.

• Some think that indicating a service type, such as FedEx Freight^® Priority, guarantees delivery within a specific time frame. Delivery estimates depend on various factors, and optional services like A.M. Delivery may not be available in all areas.

• Lastly, there is a misconception that stating a value for the shipment's contents is purely for informational purposes. In reality, it can have implications for insurance and liability in case of loss or damage, affecting the carrier's maximum liability.

Understanding the FedEx Bill of Lading form is crucial for ensuring that shipments are processed efficiently and in compliance with applicable regulations. Here are seven key takeaways that can help in accurately completing and utilizing this document:

• Critical Information: The form requires precise details about the shipment, including the shipper's and consignee's information (address, ZIP codes, and phone numbers), the FedEx Freight account numbers, and specifics about the cargo (type of package, description of articles, weight, and if applicable, hazardous material designations).
• Selection of Service Type is necessary: It is mandatory to choose between FedEx Freight Priority and FedEx Freight Economy, depending on the urgency of the delivery. Optional services like A.M. Delivery or Close of Business Delivery are also selectable, subject to additional charges and tariff limitations.
• Hazardous Materials: If shipping hazardous materials, marking “X” or “RQ” in the designated column is essential, along with providing the emergency contact phone number and adhering to DOT regulations. This ensures compliance and safety during transport.
• Freight Charges Responsibility: The form explicitly requires specifying who bears the freight charges. Indicating whether the freight charges are prepaid or collect and if the shipment is a C.O.D. (Cash on Delivery) must be clearly marked, detailing the collection method and who is responsible for the C.O.D. fee.
• Declared Value and Carrier’s Liability: For loss or damage, it's important to declare the shipment's value as the carrier's liability may be contingent upon this value. Absence of a declared value or selection of additional coverage options limits the carrier's liability as per the FXF 100 Series Rules Tariff.
• Additional Services and Fees: Noting any required additional services such as Liftgate, Inside Pickup/Delivery, or Limited Access is crucial for accurate billing and ensuring that the necessary services are provided at pickup or delivery.
• Shipper and Carrier Certification: Both the shipper and carrier must sign the Bill of Lading, confirming the accuracy of the provided information, the agreement to the terms, and the carrier’s acknowledgment of receipt. This is a vital legal acknowledgment ensuring all parties are informed and in agreement with the shipment’s terms and handling.

Completing the FedEx Bill of Lading with attention to detail and full compliance with the specified requirements ensures that the shipment is handled according to the agreed terms, reducing the risk of delays, damages, or regulatory issues.