Start with the operating instructions
Every shipment has customer- and broker-specific requirements. Read the rate confirmation, tender, and facility instructions before pickup. A generic form never overrides the agreement for the load.
Build a complete paper trail
Keep shipment identifiers consistent across the bill of lading, proof of delivery, lumper or scale receipts, rate confirmation, and invoice. Capture clear copies as soon as each document is signed.
Before leaving a facility
- Confirm names, dates, quantities, and reference numbers are legible.
- Record shortages, overages, damage, or rejected freight accurately.
- Never alter another party’s notation without their acknowledgement.
- Follow the customer’s submission method and deadline.
What a visible e-signature means
A signature image placed on a PDF is a visible electronic signature. It is not a certificate-backed digital signature, identity verification, or a guarantee of legal validity. Keep supporting records and follow applicable contract requirements.
Related tool
Need to add a signature to a finished document? Use the browser-local PDF signer; Combining several documents? Merge the PDFs in your chosen order.