The bill of lading (BOL) might look like just another piece of paperwork, but it’s really the contract that can make or break your payday. Small mistakes on the BOL can turn into big headaches later, and not for the customer, but for you. Uncle Sam (via FMCSA) and your shippers know how to use those mistakes against you. Here are the most common BOL traps movers fall into, and how to avoid getting burned.

1. Liability Valuation Slip-Ups (The “Oops, You Owe Full Value” Move)

By law, you’ve got to offer customers two options: Full Value Protection (FVP) or Released Value (60¢/lb). If the customer doesn’t pick one in writing, or worse, signs both, guess what? You’re stuck with FVP. Translation: that scratched dresser could now cost you hundreds instead of pennies. Even if your crew marks the FVP section, the customer can still claim they weren’t allowed to choose.
 Bottom line: Always record the valuation election properly. Don’t let sloppy paperwork become a blank check.

2. Tariff Non-Compliance (When Your Charges Don’t Count)

Your tariff is your rulebook. If a fee’s not in there, you can’t charge it — period. Regulators require your tariff to match your BOLs and estimates, and customers have the right to ask for it. So if you bill for a “surprise” accessorial service charge that isn’t in your tariff, you’ll end up eating that cost (and maybe some penalties too).
 Pro tip: Keep your tariff updated and make sure your BOL pulls directly from it.

3. Forgotten Accessorial Services (Cash Flow Killer)

Elevator carry, long haul, appliance hookup. If you forget to put these on the BOL before the move starts, you can’t collect on delivery. You’ll be chasing that money 30 days later, hoping the customer doesn’t dispute it.
 Lesson learned: Write it down before the truck rolls. No exceptions.

  1. “SC” Means What, Exactly? (The Inventory Shortcut That Isn’t)

Some carriers think they’ve cracked the code by scribbling “SC” (scratch) or “D” (dent) on a Descriptive Inventory, like it’s some magic shield against claims. The problem? Writing “SC” without saying where the scratch actually is, top, side, front, or back, doesn’t protect you at all. Regulators and customers see right through it. It’s basically like writing “yep, something might be wrong somewhere” and hoping that covers your bases. Spoiler: it doesn’t.

Best practice: Be specific. “SC 4 10” is valid (Scratch Front Top). “SC” floating in space? That’s just lazy shorthand that will get tossed out faster than bubble wrap on moving day.

5. Hidden Fine Print (The “Gotcha” Clause)

Arbitration programs and liability limits aren’t optional; they’re required. But if you bury them in six-point font, regulators will say they weren’t properly disclosed. Courts too. That’s a recipe for expensive disputes.
 Keep it simple: Spell it out clearly, and make sure the customer signs off.

6. Clarity Counts (No Chicken Scratch)

Rates, services, inventory lists — they’ve got to be clear and readable. Unclear abbreviations or messy handwriting lead to billing disputes, denied claims, or regulators asking awkward questions.
 Rule of thumb: If your grandma can’t read it, rewrite it.

How to Stay Out of Trouble

The easiest way to dodge these traps? Go digital. Modern moving software acts like a contract copilot: it prompts you for every rate, service, and detail, then generates a clean, compliant BOL. No more guessing, no more “oops, I forgot.” Everyone,  driver, customer, dispatcher,  sees the same info.

Our platform does exactly that: it walks you through your tariff and BOL step by step, syncing rates automatically so nothing’s left out. The result? No hidden risks, no messy disputes, and when utilized properly no lost cash.

Keep your BOLs clean, clear, and compliant, and you’ll keep your moves profitable and your stress levels low.

Sources: FMCSA & STB Regulations (49 CFR Part 375).