Transportation invoice template
Transportation invoice template is used by carriers and logistics providers to bill for freight moves. It complements the bill of lading (BOL): the BOL is the contract and receipt of goods; the invoice is the request for payment. The invoice should detail base freight, fuel surcharges, accessorials, and any other charges, with reference to the BOL or shipment ID for reconciliation.

Transportation invoice template Sample
Transportation invoice template
123 Business Street, City, Country
Phone: (123) 456-7890
Email: contact@company.com
Transportation invoice template
Bill To:
Client Name
Client Address
Client City, Country
Phone: (987) 654-3210
Email: client@example.com
Invoice #: 12345
Date: 2024-10-10
Due Date: 2024-11-10
| Item | Description | Qty | Price | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Service A | Itemized service or product | 1 | $100.00 | $100.00 |
| Service B | Additional line item | 2 | $50.00 | $100.00 |
| Subtotal | $200.00 | |||
| Tax (10%) | $20.00 | |||
| Total Due | $220.00 | |||
An invoice should include your business or name, the customer’s details, the date and invoice number, and a line-by-line breakdown of what was provided. Including payment terms—such as due on receipt, Net 15, or Net 30—helps you get paid on time and keeps records clear for taxes.
Supporting resources
| Resource | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|
| BOL vs freight invoice | Industry guide | BOL: issued at pickup, contract of carriage and receipt—no pricing. Invoice: issued after delivery, lists all charges (freight, fuel, accessorials) for payment. |
| Invoice contents | Checklist | Carrier and shipper/consignee info; shipment reference or BOL number; origin/destination; base freight, fuel surcharge, accessorials; total due; payment instructions. |
| NMFTA BOL standards | Trade association | NMFTA defines standard BOL terms; the invoice ties financial charges to the shipment identified on the BOL. |
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the difference between a BOL and a transportation invoice?
- The BOL is the legal receipt and contract of carriage (issued at pickup). The invoice is the bill for payment, issued after delivery, showing all freight and accessorial charges.
- What should a transportation invoice list?
- Base freight, fuel surcharge, and accessorials (liftgate, inside delivery, etc.) with amounts, plus shipment/BOL reference so the client can match it to the load.
- When is the transportation invoice sent?
- After delivery. The BOL is created at pickup; the invoice is issued once the shipment is complete so charges (including any detention or reweigh) can be finalized.