A letter of transmittal is a document that accompanies a main item or shipment, usually outlining its contents and providing important information about it. This letter is an important tool for communication between the sender and recipient and provides an official record of the shipment’s details.
Table of Contents
Key Elements of a Letter of Transmittal Template

A typical letter of transmittal includes the following elements:
Date: The date on which the letter of transmittal is written.
Sender’s information: The sender’s name, title, company, and address are included in this section.
Recipient’s information: The recipient’s name, title, company, and address are included in this section.
Introduction/Purpose of the letter: This section explains the purpose of the letter of transmittal, such as accompanying a shipment, transmitting a report, or forwarding a proposal.
Description of the main item or shipment: This section provides a detailed description of the item or shipment being transmitted, including its type, size, and weight.
Details of the shipment: This section provides additional details about the shipment, such as the number of items being sent, the method of shipping, and the expected delivery date.
Acknowledgment of receipt or request for acknowledgment: This section acknowledges the receipt of the shipment by the recipient, or requests an acknowledgment from the recipient if the shipment has not yet been received.
Signature of the sender: The sender signs the letter of transmittal, confirming the accuracy of the information provided and the authenticity of the shipment.
Contact information for follow-up: The sender provides their contact information for follow-up, including phone number and email address, in case there are any questions or issues with the shipment.
Letter of Transmittal Templates
Simplify the process of submitting documents with our Letter of Transmittal templates. Whether you’re sending a report, proposal, or any other type of document, our templates provide a professional and structured format to accompany your submission. These templates help you convey important information such as the purpose of the document, the recipient, and any supporting materials included. With customizable options, you can personalize the content to suit your specific needs and ensure clarity in your communication.
Our Letter of Transmittal templates are designed to save you time and effort, allowing you to focus on the content of your submission. Simply download, customize, and print the templates to create a polished and professional letter that effectively introduces and delivers your documents. Enhance your professional image and streamline your document submissions with our user-friendly Letter of Transmittal templates.
What Is The Purpose Of A Letter Transmittal ?
The purpose of a letter of transmittal is to accompany a main item or shipment and provide important information about it, such as its contents and details of the shipment. The letter serves as a formal record of the transaction between the sender and recipient and provides a clear and concise summary of the shipment’s details.
The letter of transmittal also serves as a means of communication, allowing the sender to provide additional information or instructions related to the shipment and allowing the recipient to acknowledge receipt of the shipment or request clarification on any details. Overall, the letter of transmittal helps ensure efficient and effective communication between the sender and recipient, ensuring that the shipment is properly received and understood.
Key Points About a Letter of Transmittal
The following are some important things to consider when creating a letter of transmittal:
Functions: The primary function of a letter of transmittal is to accompany a main item or shipment and provide important information about it, such as its contents, details of the shipment, and any other relevant information.
Format: The format of a letter of transmittal should be clear, professional, and easy to follow. It should include the date, sender and recipient information, introduction or purpose, description of the shipment, details of the shipment, acknowledgment of receipt, signature of the sender, and contact information for follow-up.
Tone and Content: The tone of the letter should be professional and formal, and the content should be clear, concise, and relevant to the shipment. The letter should accurately reflect the contents of the shipment and provide complete and up-to-date information about it.
Correct Use: A letter of transmittal should be used only for its intended purpose, which is to accompany a main item or shipment and provide important information about it.
Significance: The letter of transmittal is a significant document as it serves as an official record of the shipment and provides a clear and concise summary of its contents and details.
Features: A letter of transmittal should include key features such as the date, sender and recipient information, introduction or purpose, description of the shipment, details of the shipment, acknowledgment of receipt, signature of the sender, and contact information for follow-up.
Considerations: When creating a letter of transmittal, it is important to consider factors such as clarity, accuracy, professionalism, relevance, and follow-up.
Time Frame: The time frame for creating and transmitting a letter of transmittal will vary depending on the shipment and the specific needs of the sender and recipient. However, it is important to create and transmit the letter in a timely manner to ensure efficient and effective communication and to minimize any potential delays or issues related to the shipment.
How are letters of transmittal used?
Letters of transmittal are used to introduce and accompany a main document or shipment, providing details about the contents, purpose and recipient of the main document or shipment. They also serve as an acknowledgment of receipt of the main document or shipment by the recipient.
How to write a letter of transmittal
Here’s a concise step-by-step guide on how to write a letter of transmittal:
Identify the purpose: Determine the purpose of the letter of transmittal, the main document or shipment it is accompanying, and the recipient.
Address the recipient: Start with a formal address, including the recipient’s name, title, company and address.
Open with a salutation: Use a professional salutation such as “Dear [Name],”.
Introduction: Introduce the purpose of the letter of transmittal, including a brief description of the main document or shipment.
Body of the letter: Provide more detailed information about the contents, purpose and significance of the main document or shipment.
Acknowledge receipt: If applicable, acknowledge receipt of the main document or shipment by the recipient.
Closing: Close the letter with a professional closing such as “Sincerely,” followed by your signature and printed name.
Attach the main document or shipment: Securely attach the main document or shipment to the letter of transmittal.
Review and edit: Review the letter of transmittal for accuracy and clarity, making any necessary revisions before sending.
Send: Send the letter of transmittal and accompanying main document or shipment to the recipient.
Note: The tone, format and content of the letter of transmittal may vary depending on the purpose, main document or shipment, and recipient.
Tips for Writing a Letter of Transmittal Format
Header: The header should include the date and recipient information, such as their name, title, company and address.
Subject Line: A clear and concise subject line is important to let the recipient know what the letter is about.
Tone: Use a professional, courteous tone to convey a sense of respect and professionalism to the recipient.
Background information: Provide background information and context to give the recipient a better understanding of the purpose of the letter.
Purpose and content: Explain the purpose and content of the document being transmitted, so the recipient knows what to expect.
Clarity: Use bullet points or numbering to increase clarity and make the information easier to understand.
Details and instructions: Offer any necessary details or instructions to ensure that the recipient knows how to proceed.
Closing: End the letter with a closing, such as “sincerely” or “best regards,” followed by your signature.
Proofreading: Proofread the letter for accuracy and clarity, making sure there are no typos or mistakes that could cause confusion.
FAQs
Who writes a letter of transmittal?
A letter of transmittal can be written by anyone who needs to transmit a document, such as an individual, business, or organization.
Do I need to send a letter of transmittal every time I send a document?
No, a letter of transmittal is not required every time you send a document, but it can be useful to provide additional information and context.
Can a letter of transmittal be sent electronically?
Yes, a letter of transmittal can be sent electronically, either as an email or as a digital document attachment.
What tone should a letter of transmittal have?
A letter of transmittal should have a professional, courteous tone, conveying respect and professionalism towards the recipient.
Can a letter of transmittal be signed digitally?
Yes, a letter of transmittal can be signed digitally using a digital signature or electronic signature software.
Is a letter of transmittal a legal document?
A letter of transmittal is not a legal document, but it can accompany a legal document, such as a contract or agreement.