# Electronic signature

*Last updated: 2026-06-26*

> An electronic signature cryptographically binds the signer's identity and intent to a digital document, preventing undetected alteration after signing.

An electronic signature cryptographically binds the signer's identity and intent to a digital document, preventing undetected alteration after signing. In transport and logistics, e-signatures replace wet-ink signatures on bills of lading, delivery notes, customs declarations, and powers of attorney – cutting paper-based processing times significantly. A key legal property is non-repudiation: the signatory cannot later deny having signed. Within the EU, the qualified electronic signature (QES) carries the same legal weight as a handwritten signature; simpler signature tiers are widely accepted for routine operational documents. An e-signature should not be confused with a scanned image of a handwritten signature, which offers no cryptographic protection.

**Source:** [https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/DE/TXT/?uri=CELEX:32014R0910](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/DE/TXT/?uri=CELEX:32014R0910)

## Quick Facts

| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Term | Electronic signature |
| Language | EN |
| Word count | 104 |
| Last updated | 2026-06-26 |
| Source | https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/DE/TXT/?uri=CELEX:32014R0910 |

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*Logistics Glossary — Freight Academy: [https://www.freight-academy.com/en/glossary/electronic-signature](https://www.freight-academy.com/en/glossary/electronic-signature)*

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