Trucking: Bill of Lading, signature confirmation, dispatch fax

Question
I have been asked to do all paper work for the bill of lading of a very small very disorganized trucking company. What are the steps I need to take to get started so that we can get paid. If possible some companies that will the payments in 24 hours.

Answer
Hi Stephanie.

Buy some trucking software.  There are a number of companies out there that offer software geared towards trucking companies.  Here is one good company...

http://www.2omni.com/

This way, you can keep track of the money and who owes what.  Whoever is paying the bill, be it the shipper, reciever or broker, you will have to send them the original BOL.  Always make copies for yourself!  Usually you'll send the original BOL and maybe a copy of the dispatch fax you recieved and that's all.  Every company and broker is different, buy you always need to get the original Bill of Lading from the driver.  Tell the drivers that they MUST get the bills signed!  You don't want a company saying they never got the freight!  Also, when you send the BOL, make sure you get a signature confirmation.  I've had it happen where the broker says "I didn't get that BOL" and then I can't prove it.  Now the original BOL is gone in the wind.  You'll probably will still get paid, but it's a lot harder.

Good luck!

Bob Stephens