Global shipping documentation

1. Commercial Invoice

• Purpose: A document issued by the seller to the buyer, detailing the products, quantities, and agreed price for the goods.
• Key Details: Description of goods, HS codes, invoice value, terms of payment, and trade terms (like Incoterms).

2. Bill of Lading (B/L)

• Purpose: A contract between the shipper and the carrier, serving as a receipt for cargo and a document of title.
• Types: Can be negotiable (used in letter of credit transactions) or non-negotiable.
• Key Details: Shipper, consignee, description of goods, origin, destination, and instructions.

3. Packing List

• Purpose: Provides detailed information about the cargo, including dimensions, weight, and packaging.
• Key Details: Number of cartons, contents of each carton, gross/net weight, and volume.

4. Certificate of Origin (COO)

• Purpose: Certifies the country where the goods are produced, often required for customs clearance.
• Issued By: Chamber of Commerce or relevant authorities.

5. Insurance Certificate

• Purpose: Provides proof of insurance coverage for goods during transit, protecting against risks like damage, loss, or theft.
• Key Details: Value insured, policy number, insurer, and coverage terms.

6. Proforma Invoice

• Purpose: A preliminary bill of sale sent to buyers in advance of a shipment or delivery.
• Used For: Often used to secure payment or financing arrangements.

7. Export License

• Purpose: A government-issued document authorizing the export of specific goods to certain destinations.
• Required For: Controlled or sensitive goods like military equipment or technology.

8. Import License

• Purpose: Authorization required by the importing country, granting permission to bring in specific goods.
• Varies By: Country and type of product.

9. Customs Declaration

• Purpose: Required by customs authorities to process import/export duties and taxes.
• Key Details: Value of goods, HS codes, country of origin, and import/export taxes.

10. Letter of Credit (L/C)

• Purpose: A guarantee from the buyer's bank that payment will be made to the seller once the conditions of the L/C are met.
• Key Details: Payment terms, amount, expiry date, and conditions for release of payment.

11. Shipper’s Letter of Instruction (SLI)

• Purpose: Provided by the exporter to the freight forwarder/carrier with instructions on how to handle the shipment.
• Key Details: Special handling instructions, routing, and contact information.

12. Dangerous Goods Declaration

• Purpose: Required when shipping hazardous materials, ensuring compliance with safety and transport regulations.
• Key Details: Classification, packaging, and handling instructions.

13. Export Packing List

• Purpose: Provides additional information beyond the commercial invoice, facilitating customs clearance and cargo handling.
• Key Details: Detailed breakdown of items, weights, and how goods are packed.

14. Consular Invoice

• Purpose: Some countries require this invoice, which must be stamped by the consulate of the importing country.
• Used For: Verification of the shipment and its value before it reaches customs.

15. Inspection Certificate

• Purpose: Verifies the quality, quantity, and specification of goods before shipment.
• Issued By: Independent inspection agencies.

Understanding and accurately completing these documents is crucial to avoiding delays, penalties, or additional costs during global shipping transactions.