Glossary · FMCSA & freight
Proof of delivery (POD)
Also called: POD, Delivery receipt, Signed BOL
Definition
A proof of delivery (POD) is the signed document, usually the delivery copy of the bill of lading, showing the consignee received the freight, when, and in what condition.
The receiver signs and dates the POD, often with a stamp, and notes any exceptions: overages, shortages or damage. Electronic PODs from driver apps are increasingly common, with timestamps and sometimes location data.
For a factor, the signed POD is what turns a load into an invoice you can buy with confidence. Exceptions noted on it usually become short pays or claims, so read them before you fund and reflect the risk of disputes in how you treat that debtor.
Compare the POD with the bill of lading and the rate confirmation, and confirm delivery on the verification call. The document fraud guide shows how factors catch altered PODs.