Old Dominion Freight Bill of Lading (BOL) PDF: A Comprehensive Guide (Updated 02/13/2026)
Updated February 13, 2026, at 02:14:47, this guide provides a detailed overview of the Old Dominion Freight Bill of Lading (BOL) PDF, essential for streamlined shipping processes and compliance․
What is an Old Dominion Freight Bill of Lading?
The Old Dominion Freight Bill of Lading (BOL) is a crucial document in the freight shipping process, serving as a receipt for goods, a contract of carriage, and a document of title․ Specifically for Old Dominion Freight Line (ODFL) shipments, the BOL PDF details the terms of transport between a shipper and ODFL․
It contains vital information about the shipment, including origin and destination, commodity description, weight, dimensions, and any special handling instructions․ This standardized form, available as a PDF, ensures clarity and accountability throughout the entire shipping lifecycle․ Proper completion of the BOL is paramount for efficient processing, accurate tracking, and successful delivery of freight with Old Dominion․
The Importance of the BOL in Freight Shipping
The Bill of Lading (BOL) is fundamentally important in freight shipping, acting as the cornerstone of the transportation process․ For Old Dominion Freight Line (ODFL), a correctly completed BOL PDF ensures smooth operations and minimizes potential disputes․ It legally documents the transfer of goods from shipper to carrier, outlining responsibilities and liabilities․
Without an accurate BOL, shipments can face delays, incorrect billing, or even loss․ It’s essential for tracking, claims processing, and verifying delivery․ The BOL provides ODFL with the necessary details to handle your freight appropriately, including any hazardous material declarations or special service requirements․ A complete and accurate BOL is not merely a formality; it’s a critical safeguard for all parties involved․
Where to Find the Old Dominion BOL PDF Form
Obtaining the official Old Dominion Freight Bill of Lading (BOL) PDF form is straightforward․ The most reliable source is directly from the Old Dominion Freight Line website․ Navigate to the “Resources” or “Shipping Tools” section – typically found in the footer of their homepage – and search for “Bill of Lading” or “BOL Form”․
A direct download link to the current PDF version (updated 02/13/2026) should be readily available․ Avoid using outdated or unofficial forms found on third-party websites, as these may not comply with ODFL’s current requirements․ Alternatively, your Old Dominion account representative can provide you with a copy․ Ensuring you use the latest version guarantees compatibility and prevents potential shipping complications․
Understanding the Sections of the Old Dominion BOL PDF
The Old Dominion Freight Bill of Lading (BOL) PDF is meticulously structured into key sections to ensure comprehensive shipment details․ Section 1 focuses on identifying the shipper and consignee, including complete addresses and contact information․ Section 2 details the commodity being shipped, requiring a precise description and total number of pieces․
Section 3 is dedicated to weight and dimensions, crucial for accurate freight classification․ Section 4 outlines charges and payment responsibilities․ Each section builds upon the last, creating a complete record of the shipment․ Understanding the purpose of each area is vital for accurate completion and smooth transit, as of February 13, 2026․
Section 1: Shipper & Consignee Information
This initial section of the Old Dominion BOL PDF meticulously captures details about both the shipper – the party originating the freight – and the consignee – the ultimate recipient․ Accurate completion is paramount․ You’ll need to provide the full legal name of each entity, alongside complete addresses, including street number, city, state, and zip code․
Crucially, include accurate contact phone numbers for both parties to facilitate seamless communication during transit․ This information enables Old Dominion to resolve any delivery issues efficiently, as of February 13, 2026․ Double-check all entries for typos or omissions; incorrect details can cause significant delays and additional charges․
Section 2: Shipment Details (Commodity & Description)
This section of the Old Dominion BOL PDF requires a precise and thorough description of the freight being shipped․ Simply stating “boxes” is insufficient; detail the contents as specifically as possible – for example, “50 pairs of athletic shoes” or “20 cases of bottled water․” Accurate commodity descriptions are vital for proper freight classification and pricing, as of February 13, 2026․
Include the total number of pieces, the type of packaging (e․g․, cartons, pallets, crates), and whether the shipment is stackable or requires special handling․ Be mindful of any hazardous materials; these necessitate a separate declaration (covered later)․ A clear, concise description minimizes potential disputes and ensures a smooth transportation process․
Section 3: Weight & Dimensions
Accurate weight and dimension information is crucial for the Old Dominion Freight BOL PDF, directly impacting freight charges and capacity planning as of February 13, 2026․ Provide the total weight of the shipment in pounds or kilograms․ Dimensions should be listed individually for each piece and as a total for the entire shipment – length, width, and height are all required․
Old Dominion utilizes these details to determine the shipment’s density, which influences its freight class․ Underestimating weight or dimensions can lead to re-billing and delays․ Ensure measurements are precise; rounding up is preferable to rounding down․ Clearly indicate the unit of measurement used (inches or centimeters) to avoid confusion during transit․
Section 4: Charges & Payment Information
The Charges & Payment Information section of the Old Dominion Freight BOL PDF, current as of February 13, 2026, details financial responsibilities for the shipment․ While the shipper typically isn’t directly entering charges on the BOL, this section confirms billing arrangements․ Note any pre-paid freight charges or specific payment terms agreed upon with Old Dominion․
Reference any purchase order (PO) numbers or contract rates applicable to the shipment․ Clearly indicate if charges are to be billed to a third party, providing their complete billing address and contact information․ Accurate PO numbers facilitate seamless invoice reconciliation․ This section also confirms whether the shipper expects a freight collect or prepaid arrangement, ensuring proper payment handling throughout the shipping process․
Key Fields & What They Mean
Understanding key fields on the Old Dominion Freight BOL PDF (updated February 13, 2026) is crucial for accurate shipment processing․ The Pro Number is your shipment’s unique identifier, essential for tracking its journey online via Old Dominion’s tracking tools․ The NMFC Code (National Motor Freight Classification) determines freight class, impacting shipping costs based on density, stowability, handling, and liability․
Accurate classification is vital to avoid reclassification and potential charges․ The Hazardous Materials Declaration, if applicable, must be completed with precise details adhering to regulations․ Incorrect or missing information can lead to delays and fines․ These fields, alongside others, ensure a smooth and compliant shipping experience with Old Dominion․
Pro Number: Tracking Your Shipment
The Pro Number, prominently displayed on the Old Dominion Freight Bill of Lading (BOL) PDF – updated February 13, 2026 – serves as your shipment’s unique tracking identifier․ This alphanumeric code allows both you and Old Dominion to monitor the freight’s progress throughout the transportation process․
Using the Pro Number on Old Dominion’s website or through their customer service channels provides real-time updates on location, estimated delivery dates, and any potential exceptions․ Keep this number readily available for all inquiries regarding your shipment․ Accurate tracking relies on a correctly entered Pro Number, ensuring efficient communication and proactive problem-solving․ It’s the key to shipment visibility․
NMFC Code: Understanding Freight Classification
The National Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) code, a crucial element on the Old Dominion Freight Bill of Lading (BOL) PDF – current as of February 13, 2026 – determines the freight class, impacting shipping costs․ This standardized system categorizes commodities based on density, stowability, handling, and liability․
Accurate NMFC code selection is vital; incorrect classification can lead to reclassification and adjusted charges․ Old Dominion utilizes these codes to calculate rates, so diligent research or consultation with a freight specialist is recommended․ The BOL PDF requires this code to be clearly indicated․ Understanding the NMFC system ensures transparent pricing and avoids unexpected billing adjustments, streamlining the shipping process and maintaining budgetary control․
Hazardous Materials Declaration (If Applicable)
When shipping hazardous materials via Old Dominion Freight, as of February 13, 2026, the Bill of Lading (BOL) PDF must include a completed Hazardous Materials Declaration․ This section isn’t present unless hazardous goods are involved, but its accuracy is paramount for safety and legal compliance․
The declaration requires detailed information, including the proper shipping name, hazard class, UN number, packing group, and total quantity․ Shippers are responsible for correctly identifying and classifying hazardous materials according to DOT regulations․ Failure to comply can result in severe penalties, shipment delays, and safety risks․ Old Dominion’s BOL PDF provides a dedicated space for this critical information, ensuring proper handling throughout transit․
How to Properly Fill Out the Old Dominion BOL PDF
Accurately completing the Old Dominion Freight Bill of Lading (BOL) PDF, updated as of February 13, 2026, is crucial for a smooth shipping experience․ Begin by using black or blue ink and printing legibly․ Ensure all required fields are completed – missing information can cause delays․ Double-check the shipper and consignee details, shipment descriptions, and weight/dimensions․
Pay close attention to the NMFC code and hazardous materials declaration (if applicable)․ Accurate classification impacts freight charges․ Review the completed BOL thoroughly before submitting it to Old Dominion․ A well-prepared BOL minimizes errors, facilitates efficient processing, and ensures timely delivery of your goods․ Refer to Old Dominion’s website for detailed guidance and examples․
Step-by-Step Guide to Completion
Step 1: Input Shipper & Consignee details accurately – names, addresses, and contact numbers․ Step 2: Describe the shipment precisely, including commodity, packaging type, and total pieces․ Step 3: Record accurate weight and dimensions; discrepancies can lead to re-billing․ Step 4: Determine the correct NMFC code based on the commodity description․
Step 5: If shipping hazardous materials, complete the Hazardous Materials Declaration section fully․ Step 6: Review and complete the charges and payment information․ Step 7: Sign and date the BOL․ Step 8: Retain a copy for your records․ Following these steps, updated February 13, 2026, ensures a compliant and efficient BOL submission to Old Dominion Freight․
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Filling Out the BOL
Inaccurate Weight/Dimensions: This is a frequent error leading to re-billing and delays․ Always double-check these figures․ Incorrect NMFC Code: Using the wrong code impacts freight classification and cost․ Consult the NMFC directory carefully․ Missing Hazardous Materials Declaration: Failing to declare hazardous goods is a serious safety violation․
Illegible Handwriting: Ensure all entries are clear and readable to prevent misinterpretation․ Incomplete Shipper/Consignee Information: Missing details cause delivery issues․ Failure to Sign & Date: An unsigned BOL is invalid․ Retaining No Copy: Keep a record for your reference, updated February 13, 2026․ Avoiding these common errors streamlines the Old Dominion Freight process․
Old Dominion’s Specific BOL Requirements
Old Dominion Freight BOL Requirements
Old Dominion (OD) has specific requirements for their Bill of Lading (BOL) PDF to ensure smooth transit and accurate billing, updated February 13, 2026․ Detailed Commodity Descriptions are crucial; vague terms like “parts” are unacceptable․ OD requires precise descriptions for proper classification․
Accurate Pro Number Placement is essential for tracking․ Clear Marking of Pieces & Weight is needed on each piece of freight․ Special Instructions regarding loading, unloading, or delivery must be clearly noted in the designated section․ OD emphasizes complete and legible documentation․ Failure to comply may result in delays or additional charges․ Adhering to these guidelines optimizes the shipping experience with Old Dominion․
Special Instructions & Notes Section
The Special Instructions & Notes Section of the Old Dominion BOL PDF (updated February 13, 2026) is vital for communicating critical details beyond standard shipment information․ This area allows shippers to specify unique handling requirements, such as liftgate service, inside delivery, or appointment scheduling․
Clearly indicate any fragile items or temperature-sensitive goods needing special care․ Note any reference numbers (PO numbers, etc․) for easy internal tracking․ Detailed delivery instructions, including contact names and gate codes, prevent delays․ This section is not for billing disputes; it’s purely for operational guidance․ Concise, legible notes ensure your freight receives the appropriate attention throughout the transportation process with Old Dominion․
Handling of Documents & Submission Procedures
Regarding the Old Dominion BOL PDF (updated February 13, 2026), proper document handling is crucial․ One original and two copies are generally required․ Ensure all sections are completely filled out and legibly written․ Submit the BOL to the originating Old Dominion service center prior to shipment pickup․
Digital submissions via Old Dominion’s online portal are increasingly common and preferred․ Retain a copy of the BOL for your records for at least three years․ Incorrect or incomplete BOLs can cause delays and potential accessorial charges․ Always confirm submission acceptance with the service center․ Following these procedures ensures a smooth and efficient shipping experience with Old Dominion Freight․
Using the Old Dominion BOL PDF for Tracking
The Old Dominion Freight Bill of Lading (BOL) PDF (updated February 13, 2026) is integral to shipment tracking․ The Pro Number, prominently displayed on the BOL, is your key identifier․ Utilize Old Dominion’s online tracking tool – accessible via their website – by entering this Pro Number․ This provides real-time visibility into your freight’s journey․
You can also leverage Old Dominion’s mobile app for convenient tracking updates․ Expect status updates including pickup confirmation, in-transit scans, and delivery notifications․ Understanding these updates allows proactive management of your supply chain․ Regularly checking the tracking information ensures you’re informed about any potential delays or issues, facilitating timely resolution․
Online Tracking Tools & Resources
Old Dominion Freight offers robust online tracking tools, primarily accessed through their official website․ Inputting the Pro Number – found on the BOL PDF (dated February 13, 2026) – unlocks detailed shipment information․ This includes current location, estimated delivery date, and a complete shipment history․
Beyond the website, Old Dominion provides a dedicated mobile app (available on iOS and Android) mirroring the website’s tracking functionality․ They also offer OD Access, a customer portal providing enhanced tracking and reporting features․ Furthermore, Old Dominion’s customer service team is available via phone or email to assist with tracking inquiries․ Regularly utilizing these resources ensures proactive monitoring of your freight, enabling efficient supply chain management and timely issue resolution․
Interpreting Shipment Status Updates
Understanding Old Dominion’s shipment status updates, accessible via the Pro Number on the BOL PDF (as of February 13, 2026), is crucial․ “In Transit” signifies the shipment is moving towards its destination․ “Out for Delivery” indicates imminent arrival․ “Delivered” confirms successful completion․
Pay attention to status updates like “Exception,” which requires immediate investigation – potentially contacting Old Dominion’s customer service․ “Appointment Scheduled” confirms delivery timing with the consignee․ Delays may be indicated by prolonged “In Transit” status or specific exception codes․ Regularly checking updates allows for proactive problem-solving․ Remember, the BOL’s accuracy directly impacts tracking reliability, so ensure all details are correct upon initial submission․ Consistent monitoring provides visibility and control over your freight․
Troubleshooting BOL Issues
Addressing issues with your Old Dominion Freight BOL PDF (updated February 13, 2026) is vital for smooth shipments․ If lost, immediately contact Old Dominion with the Pro Number and shipment details to request a copy․ For errors on a completed BOL, contact Old Dominion before the shipment is delivered; corrections post-delivery are significantly more complex․
Discrepancies between the BOL and actual shipment details require immediate reporting․ Document all communication with Old Dominion, including dates, times, and representative names․ Utilize their online support resources for FAQs and troubleshooting guides․ Proactive communication minimizes delays and potential charges․ Accurate BOL information is paramount; double-check all entries before submission to avoid these common issues․
What to Do If You Lose the BOL
Losing your Old Dominion Freight Bill of Lading (BOL) PDF (updated February 13, 2026) isn’t ideal, but resolvable․ Immediately contact Old Dominion Freight Line’s customer service department․ Having the Pro Number is crucial; it’s the primary identifier for your shipment․ Provide as much shipment detail as possible – shipper/consignee names, addresses, commodity description, and expected delivery date․
Old Dominion can often reissue a copy of the BOL electronically․ Note that a lost BOL may require a signed Lost BOL affidavit, depending on the circumstances and shipment value․ Prompt reporting minimizes potential delays or accessorial charges․ Keep a digital record of all communication regarding the lost document for future reference and potential claims․
Correcting Errors on a Completed BOL
Discovering errors on a completed Old Dominion Freight Bill of Lading (BOL) PDF (updated February 13, 2026) requires immediate action․ If the BOL hasn’t been tendered to Old Dominion, carefully cross out the incorrect information, initial the change, and clearly write the correct details․ Never use white-out․
Once tendered, corrections become more complex․ Contact Old Dominion customer service immediately․ They may require a corrected BOL to be submitted alongside the original․ Significant errors, like incorrect weight or commodity descriptions, could lead to reclassification and adjusted charges․ Document all correction requests with dates, times, and representative names․ Maintaining clear communication and a record of changes is vital for a smooth shipping process and accurate billing․
Old Dominion Freight BOL PDF vs․ Electronic BOL (eBOL)
Old Dominion Freight offers both traditional PDF Bill of Lading (BOL) forms (updated February 13, 2026) and Electronic BOL (eBOL) systems․ While the PDF BOL is readily accessible and familiar, eBOLs provide significant advantages․ eBOLs streamline the process, reducing paperwork and potential for errors․ They integrate directly with Transportation Management Systems (TMS), automating data entry and improving accuracy․
eBOLs also enhance visibility, offering real-time updates and faster processing times․ Security is improved through controlled access and audit trails․ Though a learning curve exists with implementation, the long-term benefits of eBOLs – efficiency, cost savings, and reduced environmental impact – are substantial․ Old Dominion actively encourages shippers to transition towards eBOL solutions for a more modern and effective freight experience․
Benefits of Using eBOL Systems
Implementing Electronic Bill of Lading (eBOL) systems with Old Dominion Freight, as of February 13, 2026, delivers numerous benefits․ Primarily, eBOLs drastically reduce paperwork, minimizing administrative costs and storage needs․ Data accuracy improves significantly through automated data transfer, eliminating manual entry errors common with PDF BOLs․ Real-time visibility into shipment status is enhanced, allowing for proactive issue resolution․
Furthermore, eBOLs accelerate payment cycles due to faster invoice processing․ They also contribute to sustainability efforts by reducing paper consumption․ Enhanced security features, including audit trails and controlled access, protect sensitive shipment information․ Integration with existing Transportation Management Systems (TMS) streamlines workflows and improves overall supply chain efficiency, making eBOLs a valuable asset for modern freight management․
Transitioning from Paper BOLs to eBOLs
As of February 13, 2026, transitioning from traditional paper Old Dominion Freight BOL PDFs to electronic BOLs (eBOLs) requires a phased approach․ Begin by familiarizing your team with the new eBOL platform and its functionalities․ Old Dominion provides comprehensive training resources and support to facilitate this process․ Next, integrate the eBOL system with your existing Transportation Management System (TMS) for seamless data exchange․
Pilot programs with select lanes or customers are recommended to identify and address any potential challenges before a full rollout․ Ensure all stakeholders – shippers, carriers, and consignees – are onboarded and trained․ Data migration from existing systems should be carefully planned and executed․ Finally, continuously monitor the eBOL system’s performance and gather feedback to optimize its effectiveness and ensure a smooth, efficient transition․
