The Bill of Lading (BOL) is one of the oldest documents in logistics, with origins tracing back to Roman times. It became a formal part of maritime trade in the 16th century, initially listing only basic shipment details. Over time, it evolved to include terms of carriage, goods condition, and other key information, becoming a trusted foundation for global trade.
The Rise of the eBOL
The Electronic Bill of Lading (eBOL) began with Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) technologies in the 1960s. Standards like the EDI 211 enabled early digital sharing of shipment data but were limited by cost, complexity, and poor interoperability—issues still affecting EDI today.
In 2017, Advanced Solutions developed the first modern eBOL standard: a fully digital format that retained the legal and operational value of the paper BOL, while offering the flexibility and speed of digital systems.
Key Milestones
• 2017: The first eBOL standard was launched, incorporating key elements of the EDI 211 standard while addressing new requirements for usability, accessibility, and scalability.
• 2018: Advanced Solutions expanded the eBOL standard to support international requirements and multilingual capabilities, enabling seamless global adoption.
• 2018: A groundbreaking trial explored the use of blockchain technology to enhance the immutability and security of Bills of Lading. While blockchain had promising features, Advanced Solutions ultimately integrated select benefits into the next version of the eBOL, ensuring better scalability and adaptability for future use.
• 2020: The release of eBOL Version 2 addressed a critical need: independence from online platforms, a defining advantage of traditional paper BOLs. This update ensured that the eBOL could function without reliance on SaaS platforms or continuous internet access, providing a practical and reliable solution even in areas with limited connectivity. Logistics professionals understand that the truck keeps moving, internet or not.
When major SaaS platforms go offline, partners using eBOL Version 2 continue uninterrupted—validating one of its core principles: technology should never get in the way of the truck.
A Living, Open Standard
The eBOL standard continues to evolve through real-world collaboration with shippers, carriers, and global supply chain leaders. It balances the trusted reliability of paper with the power of digital innovation—improving speed, transparency, and sustainability.
As we finalize the next version of the standard, it will be released as Open Source—ensuring accessibility, community participation, and widespread adoption for the future of logistics.