For shippers looking to file a freight claim, nothing is more important than the BOL. The BOL, or bill of lading, can be a complex and confusing document. This article aims to demystify two terms often found on BOLs, “STC” and “SLC.” By partnering with the experts at Freightclaims.com, shippers can better understand these terms and streamline freight claims processes.
The Basics of BOL
A bill of lading (BOL) is a legal document that serves as a contract of carriage between the shipper and the carrier, and as proof of shipment and receipt of goods. It contains critical information about the goods being transported and the terms and conditions of the shipment. Some of the aspects that need to be included on the BOL are:
- Names and addresses of the shipper, carrier, and consignee
- Pickup and delivery locations, dates, and times
- Contact information for relevant parties
- Total weight of the shipment
- Total piece count of the shipment, including the number of pieces and pallets
- Freight class and NMFC code
- Added services, such as liftgate or inside delivery
- Any special shipping instructions or handling requirements
- Description of the shipment, including the type of goods and their value
- Dimensions of the shipment, including length, width, and height
- Billing information, such as the cost of the shipment and the party responsible for paying
- Shipping or purchase order information
- BOL number for tracking and reference purposes
- Carrier PRO number, a 7-10 digit number carriers use to track and organize shipments
What are STC and SLC?
“Said to Contain” (STC) and “Shipper Load and Count” (SLC) are notations that a driver makes on the BOL at time of pickup.
STC is used when the pickup driver is unable to verify the individual number of boxes on each pallet. Instead, the truck bill of lading indicates the number of pallets being shipped, followed by the phrase “Said to Contain” and the estimated number of goods within them. The key to using STC is that the carrier receiving the load takes legal responsibility only for the number of pallets indicated in the BOL, and not the estimated number of goods within them. For instance, if the BOL states “26 pallets STC 400 units,” the carrier is legally responsible only for 26 pallets, and not the 400 units within them.
On the other hand, SLC is used when the shipper loads the trailer and the driver is not able or allowed to count the pieces. This most often occurs when a driver is not allowed on a loading dock and/or when a shipper seals a trailer before the driver can confirm the pallet or piece count. In this case, the driver signs the BOL as SLC, indicating that they are not responsible for verifying the number of pallets or pieces being transported. The SLC indication reinforces the shipper’s responsibility for loading and counting the goods and protects the carrier from liability in case of any discrepancies.
Accurate Counts are Key to Successful Freight Claims
Freight claims happen. Accurate piece counts are crucial to successfully navigating them. When shippers and carriers sign the BOL, they are agreeing to the number of pieces, pallets, or containers that are being shipped. Inaccurate counts could lead to disputes, claims, and even legal action from the consignee if a shipment is delivered short. STC and SLC terms protect carriers from liability and shift the full responsibility onto the shipper to accurately count and document the shipment.
BOLs are legal documents and the STC and SLC indications hold the shipper accountable for total counts and therefore liable for any shortages. Because of this, shippers should take extra care to ensure accurate counts before loading. This includes properly documenting the shipment’s weight, piece counts, and freight class on the BOL.
In addition to ensuring accurate piece counts, shippers should utilize trailer seals for full truckload or container shipments. This means sealing trailers before leaving the loading facility and noting the seal number on the BOL. Receivers should confirm that the seal matches the BOL and is intact before opening the trailer upon arrival to ensure that the shipment has not been tampered with while in transit. Note: Shippers would use seals only with FT and container shipments; they would not put a seal on a driver’s trailer hauling LTL shipments.
Freight Claims Success Starts with the Accuracy of BOLs & Piece Counts
Cargo loss costs over $50 billion yearly, making freight claims crucial. Understanding the basics of the bill of lading document—including the STC and SLC designations—as well as the importance of accurate piece counts for each shipment is crucial for navigating the complexities of freight claims.
Having the right partner helps as well. With cloud-based software from Freightclaims.com, shippers can navigate the complex process. Shippers should prioritize preventing claims by limiting overage, shortage, and damage. Streamlining software strategies and using cloud-based communication is essential. A reliable platform with integrated deadline management can reassure customers. Freightclaims.com offers easy-to-use software and expert assistance. Request a demo to learn more.
