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Freight bill and PRO number

Last reviewed by José Luis Pérez

A freight bill is the carrier's invoice for an LTL shipment. A PRO number is the number that identifies it: one carrier's glossary defines the PRO number as "a number or combination of numbers used to identify a Freight Bill" (R+L Carriers). You use the PRO number to track the shipment and to reference the invoice when you question a charge.

What a freight bill must show

For each shipment, a for-hire motor carrier of property must issue a freight or expense bill that shows (49 CFR § 373.103(a)):

  1. The names of the consignor and the consignee.
  2. The date of shipment.
  3. The origin and destination points.
  4. The number of packages.
  5. A description of the freight.
  6. The weight, volume or measurement of the freight, if it affects the rate.
  7. The exact rate or rates assessed.
  8. The total charges due, including charges for special services.
  9. The route and the name of each participating carrier.
  10. The transfer points the shipment moved through.
  11. The address for payment, or the issuer's principal place of business.

The bill goes to the party that owes the charges.

When the bill arrives and when it is due

For shipments on credit, 49 CFR Part 377, Subpart B, sets the defaults:

  • Presentation. The carrier presents its freight bill within 7 days, not counting weekends and legal holidays: from the date it received a prepaid shipment, or from the date it delivered a collect shipment (§ 377.205).
  • Credit period. Unless the carrier's tariff sets another period, you have 15 days, counted from the day after the bill is presented and including weekends and holidays. A tariff can set a different period, but not longer than 30 calendar days (§ 377.203).
  • Terms on the bill. The bill, or a notice with it, must state the payment deadline and any late-payment penalties, service charges and discount terms (§ 377.205(c)).

These rules have exceptions, such as transportation for federal, state or D.C. governments.

How to read a freight bill

Check it against the bill of lading and your quote:

  • Weight and dimensions. A higher weight than the bill of lading may mean a reweigh.
  • Class or NMFC item. A different class may mean a reclassification. See LTL reweigh and reclassification.
  • Rates and discount. Do they match your contract or the quote?
  • Fuel surcharge. Is it calculated on the same base as in the quote?
  • Accessorial charges. Was each service requested and performed? See LTL accessorial charges.

If something doesn't match

You generally have 180 days from receiving a freight bill to contest it (49 U.S.C. § 13710(a)(3)(B)). Ask the carrier, quoting the PRO number, for the documents behind the line you question. If you already paid, see LTL freight claims for overcharge claims.

Enter the quote and the freight bill in the LTL quote vs. invoice checker to see every difference line by line. This guide is not legal advice.

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