Are you confused when you see some shipping documents such as Bill of Lading, Arrival Notice or Letter of Credit? Are you having trouble understanding what these files mean? Don’t worry – we’re here to help.
Shipping documents
● Commercial invoice
● Packing list
● Import and export declaration
● Bill of lading and sea waybill
● Certificates (production, shipping, phytosanitary)
● Waybill
● Arrival reminder
● Certificate of Origin
● Importer Security Declaration (required by local customs)
● Letter of credit
Commercial invoice
One of the most important shipping documents is the commercial invoice. It is an invoice issued by the seller (exporter) to the buyer (importer). Required during import customs clearance.
Packing list
The packing lists are another important shipping documents for international sea freight. This is a detailed overview of the goods mentioned in the commercial invoice above. It also includes information about how the shipment was packaged and what marks and numbers are on the outside of the box.
Import and export declaration
An export or import declaration lists details of goods imported or exported. This declaration is especially important when shipping international shipments.
Bill of lading and sea waybill
A bill of lading is a detailed document that you will receive from us. This is the contract of carriage, which contains important details about the goods.
A sea waybill is also a contract of carriage. However, the ocean bill of lading is not required for the delivery of the goods and will only be issued as a receipt for the goods. In addition, the sea waybill is not transferable and cannot be transferred to any third party.
Certificates (production, shipping, phytosanitary)
As part of the important shipping documents, depending on the type of your shipment, you may be asked to provide one of the following certificates:
Production certificate
This certificate refers to the material or type of production using sustainable resources or approved methods (such as sustainable wood sources). Requires permission to move goods into or out of regions where production-related regulations may apply.
Ship Certificate
The main purpose of a ship certificate is to verify the ownership of the ship. It also provides certain details such as the age and maintenance of the vessel. This certificate is usually part of the letter of credit requirements.
Phytosanitary certificate
phytosanitary certificate, the shipping documents that certifies that plants and plant products are free from regulated pests. It also noted that the consignment complied with other phytosanitary requirements imposed by the importing country.
Waybill
An Air Waybill (AWB) is a non-negotiable document issued by an air carrier as confirmation of title to the cargo. This document is prepared by the shipping freight forwarder or railway company upon receipt of the shipper’s instructions.
Arrival reminder
Another important document when shipping is the arrival notice or notice of arrival. The shipping documents informs that the goods are arriving at their destination.
Certificate of Origin
A certificate of origin,the shipping documents that states in which country a good or merchandise was manufactured. This is an important form because it helps determine whether goods are eligible for import, and if they are subject to duty.
Importer Security Declaration (required by local customs)
Your shipment may require an Importer Security Filing (ISF). This document is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection regulation and applies only to ocean freight imports. Required data includes the name and address of the seller and buyer, the importer of record, the final consignee, the name and address of the manufacturer, and the country of origin.
Letter of credit
Letter of credit is the main means of payment in international trade transactions.
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