When engaging in international shipping, having the correct documentation is essential for a smooth process. This guide outlines the key paperwork you’ll need:

Bill of Lading (BOL): This legal document issued by a carrier to a shipper details the type, quantity, and destination of the goods being carried. It also serves as a shipment receipt when the carrier delivers the cargo at the predetermined destination.

Commercial Invoice: This document is used for customs declaration by the exporting party. It provides information about the products being exported, their value, and the parties involved in the transaction.

Export Packing List: More detailed than a standard shipping manifest, this lists each item within the shipment and includes information such as the type of package (box, crate, drum, or carton), the measurements and weight of each package, and the package’s contents.

Certificate of Origin: A signed statement as to the origin of the export item. This document is required by certain foreign countries for tariff purposes, certifying the country in which the product was manufactured.

Insurance Certificate: This certifies that insurance has been obtained for the shipped goods and typically provides information on the type and level of coverage.

Letter of Credit: Often used in international transactions, this is a guarantee from a bank that a buyer’s payment to a seller will be received on time and for the correct amount.

Remember, requirements can vary by country and type of goods, so always check with your freight forwarder to ensure you have all necessary documents for your specific shipment.

For additional help or personalized advice, contact our customer service team, who are on hand to ensure your documentation is in order and your shipping experience is hassle-free.