Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Reorder Point • Supply Chain Visibility • Bill of Lading

Bill of Lading

Term from Logistics Consulting industry explained for recruiters

A Bill of Lading is a crucial shipping document that serves as a receipt for cargo, a contract for transportation, and proof of ownership for shipped goods. Think of it like a detailed receipt that tracks who owns what during shipping. When someone mentions this on their resume, they're showing they understand important shipping paperwork and have experience managing cargo documentation. Similar documents include way bills, cargo manifests, and shipping declarations. In job descriptions, this term often appears when companies are looking for people who can handle shipping documentation and understand international trade paperwork.

Examples in Resumes

Managed international shipments using Bill of Lading documentation for over 500 containers annually

Streamlined BOL processing time by implementing digital Bill of Lading systems

Trained staff on proper Bills of Lading completion and compliance requirements

Typical job title: "Logistics Coordinators"

Also try searching for:

Shipping Coordinator Logistics Specialist Trade Documentation Specialist Freight Coordinator Supply Chain Coordinator Import/Export Specialist Documentation Manager

Where to Find Logistics Coordinators

Professional Associations

Online Communities

• LinkedIn Logistics & Supply Chain Group
• Reddit r/logistics
• Supply Chain Network Groups

Job Resources

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle a situation where there's a discrepancy between the Bill of Lading and actual cargo received?

Expected Answer: A senior professional should explain the investigation process, documentation requirements, communication with stakeholders, and resolution procedures, emphasizing the importance of maintaining accurate records and proper claims handling.

Q: Describe your experience with implementing electronic Bill of Lading systems.

Expected Answer: Should discuss experience with digital transformation of shipping documentation, including cost savings, efficiency improvements, and change management processes involved in moving from paper to electronic systems.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are the key elements that must be present on a Bill of Lading?

Expected Answer: Should mention shipper/consignee information, cargo description, vessel details, ports of loading/discharge, and cargo quantity/weight, explaining why each element is important.

Q: Explain the difference between a Clean and Claused Bill of Lading.

Expected Answer: Should explain that a clean B/L means cargo was received in good condition, while a claused B/L indicates damage or discrepancy, and discuss the implications for international trade.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is the basic purpose of a Bill of Lading?

Expected Answer: Should explain that it's a receipt for goods, proof of contract of carriage, and a document of title, using simple terms and basic examples.

Q: How do you verify if a Bill of Lading is completed correctly?

Expected Answer: Should describe basic checking procedures for accuracy of information, required signatures, and matching with other shipping documents.