Bill of Lading Tracking

Get Real-Time Updates on Your Cargo’s Status and Location


Bill of Lading (B/L) Tracking Made Simple

Bill of Lading (B/L) Tracking Made Simple

Tracking your shipments with Tradlinx is fast and easy. Just enter your Master B/L or Carrier information, and instantly access real-time updates on your shipment’s current status, location, and estimated arrival time. Whether you’re monitoring a single shipment or overseeing multiple containers, Tradlinx ensures seamless management and full visibility across all major shipping lines.

All About Bills of Lading (B/L)

Streamline Your Workflow with B/L Insights.

  • A Bill of Lading (B/L) is a vital document used in international shipping. It serves as both a receipt for goods being transported and a document of title, enabling the exchange of goods between sellers and buyers.
    In export and import transactions, the B/L acts as proof of ownership. It is exchanged for goods during the sale and purchase process.

    Types of B/L
    • Original B/L: Typically issued in triplicate by the shipping or logistics company, with additional copies for banks and records.
    • Waybill or Surrendered B/L: Issued based on the transaction’s needs.

    The B/L can vary by the issuer
    • Master B/L (issued by carriers): Also referred to as “Carrier B/L” or “Master Direct B/L.”
    • House B/L (issued by freight forwarders): A customized version for specific clients.
  • Master B/L (Carrier B/L) and House B/L (Forwarder B/L) differ in terms of the issuing party and their characteristics:

    1. Master B/L
    • Issued by the shipping line (carrier).
    • Benefits: Faster clearance upon cargo arrival.
    • Limitation: Limited flexibility in resolving shipment-specific issues.

    2. House B/L
    • Issued by the freight forwarder.
    • Benefits: Personalized support and issue resolution.
    • Limitation: May involve additional time and fees.


    Shippers can choose the B/L type that aligns with their needs and operational priorities.Bill of Lading Document SampleTo identify the issuing party, check the bottom or top-right corner of the document.
  • Master B/L numbers are typically located at the top-right corner of the Bill of Lading document and follow the format XXXX12345689.
    • The first 3–4 letters represent the carrier’s prefix code (e.g., COSU for COSCO, MSCU for MSC).
    • This is followed by 8–12 alphanumeric characters.
    • Some carriers may use 3-letter prefixes instead of 4.

    Shipping CompanyMaster B/L Prefix
    Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC)MSCU, MEDU
    Maersk LineMAEU
    CMA CGMCMDU
    COSCO ShippingCOSU, COAU
    Hapag-LloydHLCU
    Evergreen MarineEGLV
    Ocean Network Express (ONE)ONEY
    Hyundai Merchant Marine (HMM)HDMU
    Yang Ming Marine TransportYMLU, YMJA, YMPR
    ZIM Integrated Shipping ServicesZIMU

Frequently Asked Questions About B/L Tracking

  • Enter your B/L number in the Tradlinx tracking tool for real-time updates on your shipment’s status and location.
  • Yes, Tradlinx’s tool allows you to track multiple containers simultaneously, making it easier to manage large shipments.
  • You can set up automatic notifications via email for important updates on key shipment milestones.
  • Yes, Tradlinx’s real-time tracking tool allows you to monitor your shipment’s journey using your B/L number. You’ll receive accurate updates on the location and estimated delivery of your cargo.

Track Across Leading Shipping Lines

  • ONE
  • MSC
  • Maersk
  • COSCO
  • CMA CGM
  • OOCL
  • Wan Hai
  • Hapag-Lloyd
  • Yang Ming
  • ZIM
  • HMM
  • KMTC
  • PIL
  • Sealand
  • SITC
  • RCL
  • CNC
  • ANL
  • Interasia
  • Sinokor
  • Emirates
  • Gold Star
  • Evergreen
  • Heung A
  • SM Line
  • APL
  • Namsung
  • Sinotrans
  • CK LINE
  • Pan Ocean
  • SeaLead
  • Dongjin
  • Swire Shipping
  • Westwood
  • Dongyoung
  • Volta
  • Pan Continental
  • T.S. Lines
  • Taiyoung
  • Hansung
  • Kambara Kisen
  • Samudera Shipping Line
  • Turkon Line
  • Matson
  • Arkas Line