Bill of Lading Tracking: How to Check Status and Understand Updates
In international trade, every shipment travels with key export documents. One of the most important is the Bill of Lading (BoL). This document serves as proof of shipment and plays a crucial role in tracking goods as they move across borders.
In this guide, we will explain what a Bill of Lading is, how to track it, who issues it, and how to understand tracking updates effectively.
What is a Bill of Lading (BoL)?
A Bill of Lading is a legal document issued by a carrier (such as a shipping line or freight forwarder) to the shipper, confirming that goods have been received for shipment. It serves three main purposes:
- Proof of shipment – Confirms that the goods are onboard.
- Title of goods – Acts as ownership proof.
- Contract of carriage – Defines terms between the shipper and the carrier.
Who Issues the Bill of Lading?
The shipping company or carrier issues the Bill of Lading after the goods are loaded onto the vessel. In some cases, a freight forwarder or Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier (NVOCC) issues a “House Bill of Lading,” while the actual carrier issues a “Master Bill of Lading.”
- Master Bill of Lading (MBL) – Issued by the shipping line to the freight forwarder.
- House Bill of Lading (HBL) – Issued by the freight forwarder to the exporter or importer.
Why Bill of Lading Tracking Matters
Tracking a Bill of Lading allows exporters and importers to:
- Monitor shipment status in real time.
- Estimate delivery timelines accurately.
- Ensure documentation matches the shipment.
- Identify delays or customs issues early.
- Enhance transparency throughout the supply chain.
How to Track a Bill of Lading
Tracking your Bill of Lading is usually straightforward and can be done online using the carrier’s tracking portal.
Step 1: Locate Your Bill of Lading Number
Your Bill of Lading number (BoL number) is printed at the top of your document. It’s typically a combination of letters and numbers—for example, MAEU123456789 (for Maersk Line).
Step 2: Visit the Shipping Line’s Tracking Portal
Each major carrier provides an online tracking system. Below are a few examples:
Step 3: Enter the Bill of Lading Number
Enter your BoL number and click on “Track” or “Search.”
Step 4: Review Shipment Status
The system will show details like:
- Container loading date
- Vessel departure and arrival
- Transshipment ports
- Customs clearance updates
- Final delivery status
Understanding Bill of Lading Tracking Updates
When you track your shipment, you may see different status updates. Here’s what they mean:
Example of a Bill of Lading
Here’s what a typical Bill of Lading includes:
- Exporter and Importer details
- Shipping line name
- Port of loading and discharge
- Description of goods
- Container number
- Freight terms (Prepaid or Collect)
- Date and signature of carrier
Example: Bill of Lading No: MAEU123456789 Exporter: ABC Textiles Pvt Ltd, India Consignee: XYZ Trading Ltd, USA Port of Loading: Mumbai Port of Discharge: New York Container No: MSKU9876543
Difference Between Bill of Lading and Bill of Entry
While both are key trade documents, they serve different purposes:
Common Mistakes in Bill of Lading Tracking
- Incorrect BoL number – Double-check for typos.
- Wrong carrier website – Ensure you’re using the correct shipping line’s tracker.
- Delay in system updates – Some carriers update data with a lag of 12–24 hours.
- Confusion between HBL and MBL – Always use the right type of Bill of Lading number.
How EximPe Helps Exporters Track and Manage Shipments
Managing export documentation like Bills of Lading, Invoices, and Customs Papers can be challenging. EximPe simplifies this with an all-in-one cross-border payments and trade management platform.
With EximPe, you can:
- Access global trade & collection accounts powered by AD Category-I Banks (RBI compliant).
- Track trade payments and documents in one dashboard.
- Enjoy the best FX rates for international transactions.
- Simplify trade finance and documentation with reduced paperwork.
EximPe makes global trade faster, more transparent, and fully compliant.
Conclusion
Understanding bill of lading tracking empowers exporters and importers with control and transparency throughout the shipping journey. Using carrier platforms and knowing what status updates mean ensure smoother logistics and timely deliveries.
FAQs
1. What is Bill of Lading in export?
A Bill of Lading is a document issued by a carrier as proof that goods have been received and shipped under specific terms.
2. Who issues the Bill of Lading?
It’s issued by the shipping line or freight forwarder once the goods are loaded onto the vessel.
3. How do I track a Bill of Lading online?
Visit your carrier’s website (like Maersk, CMA CGM, or MSC), enter the Bill of Lading number, and check shipment status.
4. What is the difference between House Bill of Lading and Master Bill of Lading?
HBL is issued by a freight forwarder, while MBL is issued by the shipping line.
5. What if my Bill of Lading number is not showing any results?
Wait for 24 hours or verify if you are using the correct carrier’s tracking system.
6. Can I track multiple Bills of Lading at once?
Some carriers allow batch tracking by uploading BoL numbers in a spreadsheet.
7. Is the Bill of Lading mandatory for customs clearance?
Yes, it’s a mandatory document for both export and import customs processes.
8. What happens if the Bill of Lading is lost?
You can request a duplicate or a “Telex Release” copy from your carrier, subject to their verification process.
9. How is Bill of Lading linked to payment terms?
In Letter of Credit (LC) transactions, the BoL acts as evidence that goods have been shipped as per agreed terms.
10: What if I lose my bill of lading?
Losing it can delay cargo release; contact your carrier immediately for duplicate issuance procedures.
