15+ Best Electronic Bill Of Lading Software (BOL) For 2023
Bill of lading (BOL) software is a hot topic trending in the logistics Industry community today. And for good reason! As more companies adopt a bill of lading software, those who haven’t yet will be left further and further behind. Building the business case for a bill of lading software investment is pretty cut and dried.
BOL software is an easy upgrade for several reasons, which we’ll review in this guide. We recommend bookmarking this article as a go-to source for everything you need to know about BOL software. Here’s what we’ll cover in this article:
- Bill of lading software basics
- 16 best bill of lading software
- What key features you need to look for with bill of lading software
- How you can perform due diligence on the bill of lading software companies
Covering The Basics: What’s Bill of Lading Software?
BOL software provides an electronic bill of lading service to the logistics industry. Bills of lading in general are a mainstay of the logistics industry. It is a document that serves several important functions in the logistics process of moving goods and freight from point A to point B.
For example, a BOL includes all the basic load information for a shipment. In addition, a BOL contractually protects the shipper, carrier, and consignee. This is true in part because BOLs act as a legal document of title as well as a receipt of goods. Beyond that, the process of signing a BOL is considered a legal exchange of ownership.
In short, BOLs are all about needing that signature, right?
But when something like a global pandemic strikes, now what? Freight still has to ship and we still need that signature to get paid at the end of the day. The solution? Bill of lading software.
Tech was already streamlining the logistics industry before COVID-19. That trend skyrocketed because the bill of lading software such as Vector’s allowed for contactless, touchless, socially distant freight.
Now that we’ve covered the basics of what a bill of lading software is, let’s take a closer look at the 16 best electronic bill of lading software options you can find in the market to help you streamline your shipping processes and increase overall efficiency.
16 Best Electronic Bill Of Lading Software For Efficient Supply Chain Operations
Here are our top 3 picks for the best eBOL software of 2023:
- Vector – Best overall electronic bill of lading software
- Bolero – Most flexible deployment
- E-Title – Industry-leading security standards
Let’s get started with a detailed review of the 16 best electronic bills of lading software.
1. Vector - Top Pick
Vector is the leading electronic bill of lading software that is built to streamline processes, increase efficiency, and eliminate errors. Our user-friendly app simplifies the process of transitioning from traditional paper bills of lading to digital records.
With just a few taps, the app swiftly captures an image of the paper bill of lading and uploads it to the cloud. Vector’s advanced algorithm auto-enhances the image quality and ensures that even the most challenging text is easily readable. Vector provides an accurate and reliable record-keeping system, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and simplifying audits.
By eliminating the need for time-consuming paperwork and manual checks, Vector lets drivers navigate through the logistics process at least 30% faster. Our app has seamless integration capabilities with other systems to synchronize operations and facilitate a smoother flow of information.
Vector goes beyond being a mere electronic bill of lading software; it offers a complete yard management solution. With its powerful features, you can efficiently track and manage your yard operation, including dock scheduling, gate control, and asset tracking.
Vector Pricing
Get in touch with us for a customized pricing plan.
Get best practices for reducing dwell time
2. Bolero - Most Flexible Deployment
With Bolero eBOL software, you can effortlessly create, manage, and transmit electronic versions of freight bills. It has multiple-shipper capabilities and enables collaboration among different parties involved in a shipment.
Bolero’s eBOL software is built on a robust infrastructure that prioritizes security and risk mitigation. Using encryption technologies and secure data storage practices, Bolero ensures that sensitive information is protected from unauthorized access or tampering.
Bolero’s software can easily integrate with existing logistics and trade systems. Whether it’s transportation management systems, supply chain management platforms, or enterprise resource planning solutions, Bolero effortlessly integrates with these tools, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing manual data entry.
Bolero Pricing
Custom pricing plans are available on demand.
3. E-Title - Industry-Leading Security Standards
E-Title digitizes the entire bill of lading process and eliminates the need for cumbersome paperwork. With a user-friendly interface and intuitive design, this software streamlines operations, allowing for faster, more efficient documentation and quicker payment processing. E-Title employs industry-leading security standards, safeguarding freight bills and database file listings from unauthorized access, tampering, or loss.
E-Title uses the power of cloud technology to provide you with anytime, anywhere access to critical information. With updates available at your fingertips, you can make informed decisions, proactively address issues, and optimize your supply chain operations.
The software’s compliance with the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL) Model Law on Electronic Transferable Records and other relevant guidelines ensures the acceptance and recognition of e-BOLs in jurisdictions worldwide.
E-Title Pricing
Contact their sales team for price quotes.
4. SmartBOL - Most Customizable App
SmartBOL simplifies the process of generating freight bills of lading and other necessary documentation. With its easy-to-use interface, you can quickly create, customize, and electronically sign bills of lading. The software provides you with a unique shipment tracking link for each bill of lading so that you can monitor the progress of their shipments in real time.
SmartBOL offers a mobile application so you can access and manage their bill of lading and shipment information on the go. It provides on-demand access and an automated sharing option. You can customize your bill of lading templates with different branding elements. The software offers scalable solutions that can grow with the evolving needs of the business.
SmartBOL Pricing
- Base ($39/user/month): 100 transactions per user license
- Pro ($99/user/month): 100 transactions per user license with on-demand document retrieval
- Solution (From $1,499): Custom plan
5. essDOCS - Consistent Accuracy With Less Effort
Established in 2005, essDOCS’ has over 65,000 company users from 190 countries. This electronic bill of lading software has a comprehensive suite of tools designed to simplify the complex process of managing bills of lading. It has security measures to protect against unauthorized access, tampering, and data breaches.
Through its cloud-based platform, all participants can access, review, and exchange documentation instantly, regardless of their geographic location. The software includes built-in validation checks that ensure the accuracy and completeness of shipping documentation.
essDOCS maintains a detailed audit trail and document history, providing a transparent record of all interactions and changes made to the electronic bill of lading form and associated documents.
essDOCS Pricing
Custom pricing plans are available on demand.
6. edoxOnline - Highly Configurable Solution
edoxOnline simplifies and automates the entire lifecycle of a bill of lading. From bills of lading to commercial invoices and packing lists, it provides a centralized repository for easy access and retrieval. edoxOnline offers customizable workflows tailored to your business needs. As a freight carrier, you can configure the software to align with your internal processes.
edoxOnline incorporates automated notifications and alerts into its software. You can set up customized triggers and receive real-time updates on critical milestones. The software ensures the integrity and confidentiality of sensitive information throughout the entire process. Logistic companies can confidently handle hazardous material processing while adhering to strict regulatory requirements.
edoxOnline Pricing
The company provides tailor-made plans based on your needs.
7. TruckLogics - For Easy Collaboration
TruckLogics is a software product that offers a seamless and efficient process for generating electronic bills of lading. With TruckLogics, multiple parties involved in the shipment can collaborate in real time on the eBOL. They can access and update the eBOL electronically, ensuring accurate and up-to-date information throughout the entire shipping process.
TruckLogics incorporates secure digital signature functionality to simplify the approval process and speed up document processing. Also, you can easily attach supporting documents, such as invoices, packing lists, or certificates of origin, directly to the eBOL within TruckLogics.
TruckLogics Pricing
TruckLogics provides customized pricing plans for its eBOL software.
8. Transflo - Integrated Imaging Capabilities
Transflo is a highly efficient eBOL software that automates key tasks – from creation to distribution. Its smooth integration with various transportation systems eliminates the need for manual data entry and reduces errors. Bar code-type printers seamlessly generate accurate shipping labels for smooth tracking and traceability throughout the supply chain.
Transflo’s software includes integrated imaging capabilities through which you can capture and attach supporting documents directly to the eBOL. This eliminates the need for separate document management systems or physical storage. It also has powerful analytics tools that provide valuable insights into shipping operations.
Transflo Pricing
Get in touch with Transflo for a customized price quote.
9. Trucksoft - Most Streamlined Processes
Trucksoft simplifies this process of electronic bill of lading creation with its user-friendly templates. Its easy-to-use interface guides you through the creation of accurate and compliant bills of lading. The software is highly customizable and can adjust according to various industry-specific requirements.
Trucksoft has an advanced special instructions database that accommodates different requirements like hazardous cargo handling, temperature-sensitive goods, or specific delivery requirements. It can connect with other shipping software, accounting systems, customer relationship management (CRM) tools, and third-party platforms.
Trucksoft Pricing
Contact Trucksoft’s sales team for a tailor-made pricing plan.
10. WaveBL - Powered By Blockchain
WaveBL is a renowned eBOL software with clients in over 100 countries. To date, it has generated 250,000+ eBOLs. The software is blockchain-based and offers a secure and tamper-proof platform for creating, transferring, and tracking electronic bills of lading. Each transaction is recorded in a decentralized ledger for a complete audit trail.
With just a few clicks, you can generate and share digital documents which helps save valuable time, reduce administrative costs, and minimize the potential for errors. WaveBL incorporated smart contract technology into its platform to automate tasks like payment settlements, delivery confirmations, and document transfers.
WaveBL Pricing
Customized quotes are available on demand.
11. Seatech EDOC - Scalability At Its Best
With Seatech EDOC, you can generate, edit, and transmit electronic bills of lading effortlessly. The software has an intuitive interface that facilitates quick input of shipment details. It also gives you advanced analytics and reporting functions to generate customizable reports on different KPIs.
Seatech EDOC has an exception management system that alerts you to any deviations or irregularities in the transportation process. With its offline capabilities, you can continue creating and accessing eBOLs offline, with the system automatically syncing and updating once an internet connection is restored.
Seatech EDOC Pricing
Contact EDOC to discuss your needs and they’ll provide a custom quote.
12. Movegistics - For All Business Sizes
Movegistics brings a new level of efficiency to the bill of lading documentation process. Its simplified and logical workflow ensures that even users with minimal technical knowledge can navigate the system effortlessly.
Movegistics serves as a centralized hub for managing all aspects of electronic bill of lading documentation. With this software, you can easily monitor the status of shipments. It uses industry-standard encryption protocols to protect data both during transit and at rest. The software is highly scalable and is capable of handling the needs of small shipping businesses as well as large enterprises with complex operations.
Movegistics Pricing
Movegistics provides tailor-made plans for its eBOL software.
13. GoCanvas - Complex Tasks Made Easy
Trusted by over 5,000 companies, GoCanvas offers a robust set of features that caters specifically to the needs of the supply chain industry. The software includes powerful calculation functionality within eBOL forms. You can set up formulas and calculations that automatically determine quantities, totals, or other variables based on user input.
Multiple users can work simultaneously on the same eBOL form, making updates, capturing data, and communicating instantly. GoCanvas captures and attaches photos directly to the eBOL forms. You can visually document the condition of goods, packaging, or any damage that may have occurred during transit.
GoCanvas Pricing
GoCanvas has 2 different plans but you have to get in touch with them for their pricing.
14. Parseur - Largest Number Of Native Connectors
Parseur is an advanced eBOL software with automatic layout detection capability. Its intelligent algorithms can automatically identify and extract relevant information from bills of lading irrespective of the document’s layout or formatting.
Parseur offers hundreds of native connectors that easily integrate with popular tools and platforms. This allows you to effortlessly import data from bills of lading directly into your existing workflow systems.
With Parseur’s mobile app, you can manage electronic bills of lading conveniently from your smartphones or tablets. The mobile app is highly customizable, allowing you to tailor the interface according to your preferences.
Parseur Pricing
- Free: 20 credits/month
- Pay As You Grow ($0.39/page): 100 credits/month
- Enterprise (Custom plans): Contact Parseur for pricing
15. Cargoflip - For Long-Term Healthy Profits
Cargoflip is designed to optimize and streamline the creation and processing of bill of lading documents. By using robust functionality, this software will save up to 40% of your time. It makes creating electronic bills of lading 5 times faster than traditional methods.
Cargoflip has a suite of features that effectively reduces delays by up to 85%. The software incorporates intelligent validation checks and error detection mechanisms to ensure that all required data and documentation are complete and accurate before submission. It is built on a secure infrastructure that protects against unauthorized access, data breaches, and information leaks.
Cargoflip Pricing
Custom pricing plans are available on request.
16. CargoX - Most Easy To Use
CargoX uses blockchain technology to provide security and transparency. This makes it virtually impossible to manipulate or forge documentation. The software also employs a sophisticated mechanism that uses secure digital keys for the transfer of digital documents. These digital keys serve as unique identifiers and give access only to authorized individuals or entities.
With CargoX, once a document is created and stored, it cannot be altered or deleted without leaving a clear trace. This feature provides an invaluable audit trail and guarantees the integrity and authenticity of the documents. CargoX has a user-friendly interface that requires minimal training and technical expertise.
CargoX Pricing
Get in touch with CargoX for a tailor-made pricing quote.
While we’ve cracked the code on the 16 best eBOL software, we know it can be a bit overwhelming to pick the one that best suits your needs. But don’t worry, we’re here to lend a hand and reveal the features that you should look for when selecting your eBOL software soulmate.
What Features Must BOL Software Have?
Your bill of lading software needs these basic features. But with many BOL software products on the market, how can you choose the right one? Look for the following features:
E-signature
As noted above, e-signature can be a literal lifesaver in times of chaos. Not only does it provide a secure and convenient way to sign documents but it also eliminates the need for physical interaction, making it invaluable during health emergencies or situations where in-person meetings are not feasible. E-signature is the game changer. Get it.
High-end mobile imaging
Mobile document scanning is what enables you to digitize your bills of lading, as well as proofs of delivery, trip sheets, and every other freight document you can think of. High-quality imaging is therefore crucial. Get the best document-scanning software provider you can find.
Transportation management system (TMS) and full-stack integration.
There’s an old saying: “It’s a bad thing when the left hand doesn’t know what the right hand is doing.” Remember that when you’re shopping for your BOL software. Find a BOL software that integrates with their company’s TMS and entire tech stack. It just makes life easier.
Rendition billing modules.
This is a sneaky feature that improves Days Sales Outstanding (DSO). To be honest, automating DSO and other processes and documents is another way the right tech features can make life so much easier. Rendition billing allows you, your office staff, and your drivers to focus on core responsibilities, not just push paper.
Customization
Gordon Gekko told us in the movie Wall Street that “Greed is good.” This is where you should be greedy about your company’s specific needs. Not every bill of lading software provider works with you to customize and streamline your specific workflows.
Support
This ties into customization. Not every bill of lading software company acts like they want your business. Find a BOL software provider that responds quickly to your needs. Do they reply knowledgeably to questions in their chat box? Do they act like they want to partner with you? Who else do they partner with already? Look at the badges of existing customers on their website. You want the sense that your BOL software provider is established and intends to be around for the long haul (no pun intended).
Keep these 6 proven ways in mind when you’re on the hunt for a BOL software provider.
Note: nowhere did we suggest that you go with the cheapest option.
Schedule a FREE yard audit with Vector
How To Perform Due Diligence On Electronic BOL Software?
There are things more important than money when it comes to technology – like time. Bad decisions and bad tech cost more in the long run, so be smart upfront.
Do as much upfront vetting as possible. What does this process entail?
Read The Reviews
Essentially, it’s the same process you have when shopping with a provider such as Amazon. In other words, read the reviews. The beauty of the internet is that we can get third-party opinions of strangers on absolutely everything. While this isn’t a fail-safe process, if you’re thorough, you can build an impression about the pros and cons that allows you to make an educated decision.
Delve Into The Riches Of Customer Case Studies
A high-quality bill of lading software company will have many customer case studies and reviews on its website. Start there. Certain case studies and reviews may not discuss the topics that are most pressing for your decision. But if you read enough of them, you can most likely piece together the information you need. Narrow down your decision to the best options.
Talk To Them
Next, contact the software provider. Get a feel for their expertise. Do you feel like you will receive the timely support you know you’ll need when a crisis hits? Ask the hard questions now and ask for their pricing. Build your business case, be confident in your process, and then make your decision without hesitation.
Get Ready For New Possibilities
We’ve looked into the 16 best electronic bill of lading software and discussed the keys to success when selecting the right one for your company. Here are the last pieces of advice we’ll leave you with.
Make sure the software company you partner with matches your ambitions. When you find the right match – get excited.
So often, we see people get too scared of the idea of onboarding new tech. Control that old urge. No solution is 100% perfect, but make no mistake—the right bill of lading software is going to be a game changer for you and your company.
Vector is the ultimate solution that will revolutionize your shipping operations. We are committed to simplifying and enhancing logistical operations through our continuously evolving advanced technology.
Integration with other systems? No problem. Faster processing time? Check. Saving money and preventing errors? Absolutely. So what are you waiting for? Download our app today to take full control of your yard operations and experience enhanced efficiency like never before.
This post was written by Brian Deines. Brian believes that every day is a referendum on a brand’s relevance, and he’s excited to bring that kind of thinking to the world of modern manufacturing and logistics. He deploys a full-stack of business development, sales, and marketing tools built through years of work in the logistics, packaging, and tier-1 part supply industries serving a customer base comprised of Fortune 1000 OEMs.
