One missing document can keep your container at the port for days and cost demurrage. Prepare the list early with your supplier and customs broker.
Core documents
- Commercial invoice: product, quantity, price and delivery terms.
- Packing list: number of packages, net and gross weights.
- Bill of lading: issued by the carrier as proof of receipt.
- Certificate of origin: proves origin and may grant customs benefits under trade agreements.
Documents some countries require
- Certificate of analysis or inspection.
- Self-heating test certificate or dangerous goods declaration for shipping.
- Phytosanitary or fumigation certificate in some countries.
- Chamber of commerce or embassy legalisation.
Avoiding delays
- Check your country’s requirements with your broker before shipping.
- Request draft documents for review before finals are issued.
- Make sure names and weights match across all documents.
We help clients prepare the export documents they need. Ask us about your country’s requirements.
