{"id":26628,"date":"2025-08-29T13:06:31","date_gmt":"2025-08-29T13:06:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/china.docshipper.com\/en\/?p=26628"},"modified":"2025-09-10T15:07:56","modified_gmt":"2025-09-10T15:07:56","slug":"documents-logistics-international","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/china.docshipper.com\/en\/logistics\/documents-logistics-international\/","title":{"rendered":"International Shipping: All documents you need to import\/export [COMPLETE GUIDE]"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t
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In international logistics, a documentation error can be costly: customs delays, delivery interruptions, fines, or even lost shipments. Whether you’re importing or exporting by sea, air, or land (excluding express couriers like DHL), mastering the required documentation is absolutely critical.<\/span><\/p>

Here\u2019s DocShipper\u2019s comprehensive guide to help you understand, anticipate, and manage all the key documents.<\/span><\/p>

Need help ?<\/span><\/span> \u2192 Get a free quote in 24h<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t

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The 11 Essential Documents You Must Know<\/b><\/h2>

1. Proforma Invoice<\/b><\/h3>

The proforma invoice is the first formal document issued in an international transaction. While it is not legally binding in accounting terms, it serves as a structured international quotation. It allows the buyer to initiate key procedures such as opening a letter of credit, applying for import licenses, or securing foreign currency. It should include a full description of the goods, quantities, unit prices, Incoterms, payment terms, delivery method, applicable currency, and expiration date. It plays a key role in both logistical and financial planning.<\/span><\/p>

2. Commercial Invoice<\/b><\/h3>

The commercial invoice is one of the most critical documents in international trade. It formalizes the sale between exporter and importer and is required by customs to assess duties and taxes, and by banks in cases involving letters of credit or documentary collections. It must detail the parties involved, full product description, HS code, Incoterm, value (FOB\/CIF), payment terms, beneficiary bank details, and purchase order reference. Mistakes can result in customs blocks or payment refusal.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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When dealing with a letter of credit, even a small error (like a typo or abbreviation) on your invoice can result in non-payment. Always have it reviewed by an expert.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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3. Packing List<\/b><\/h3>

The packing list complements the commercial invoice. While it has no financial value, it describes the physical contents of the shipment. Each box or pallet should be listed with dimensions, net\/gross weight, markings, and contents. It is essential for the freight forwarder to prepare the bill of lading, for customs to perform inspections, and for insurers in the event of damage or loss. A clear packing list ensures full traceability, especially for consolidated (LCL) cargo.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Good to know<\/b>: Many insurers require the packing list to process damage claims. Without it, compensation could be denied.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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4. Certificate of Origin (CO)<\/b><\/h3>

The certificate of origin certifies the country in which the goods were manufactured or underwent substantial transformation. Many customs authorities require it to apply preferential duties under trade agreements or simply to verify origin. It can be generic or linked to a specific trade agreement (EUR.1, ATR, FORM A). It is usually issued by the Chamber of Commerce in paper or digital form. Missing it can lead to higher duties or denial of entry.<\/span><\/p>

5. Free Sale Certificate<\/b><\/h3>

This document is often required for regulated products like cosmetics, dietary supplements, medical devices, or food. It confirms that the product is legally sold in its country of origin and complies with local health regulations. Usually issued by health ministries or authorized bodies, it is requested by foreign customs or health agencies.<\/span><\/p>

6. Shipper\u2019s Letter of Instruction (SLI)<\/b><\/h3>

The SLI is a key operational document that gives your freight forwarder the authority to handle the shipment. It outlines shipping instructions, freight mode, Incoterm, pick-up\/delivery addresses, packaging info, and any export declarations (e.g., via the AES – Automated Export System). It may also serve as a limited power of attorney. If anything goes wrong, the SLI helps clarify responsibility.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t

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\r\n

From China to Your Doorstep.
We Cover Everything.<\/p>

Simple, cost-effective, secure international transport managed by a single point of contact.<\/p>\r\n \r\n <\/div>\r\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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7. Air Waybill (AWB)<\/b><\/h3>

The AWB is the air freight transport document issued by the airline or freight forwarder. It serves as a contract of carriage, proof of receipt, and delivery note. It includes shipper and consignee details, cargo description, weight, departure and destination airports, and terms of transport. Unlike ocean bills of lading, AWBs are non-negotiable and do not represent ownership of the goods.<\/span><\/p>

8. Bill of Lading (B\/L)<\/b><\/h3>

The bill of lading is essential for sea freight. It serves three functions: contract of carriage, receipt of goods onboard, and negotiable title of ownership. It may be straight (non-transferable) or negotiable (to order), in which case it can be transferred through banking channels, particularly when using a letter of credit. Without the original B\/L, goods cannot be claimed at the destination port. It is also key in dispute resolution.<\/span><\/p>

9. CMR (Road Transport Document)<\/b><\/h3>

Used for international road transport, especially across Europe and Eurasia, the CMR is based on the CMR Convention (1956). It defines the carrier\u2019s liability and serves as a contract of carriage. It includes the shipper, carrier, consignee, goods description, quantity, weight, pick-up and delivery locations. It is vital for legal compliance, claims, or roadside inspections.<\/span><\/p>

10. Dangerous Goods Declaration<\/b><\/h3>

Transporting hazardous goods requires specific documentation. IATA (for air) or IMO (for sea) forms detail the cargo\u2019s hazards, safety procedures, labeling, and handling conditions. These must be filled out by certified personnel. Any mistake can pose serious safety risks and lead to penalties or shipment rejection.<\/span><\/p>

11. Bank Draft (Documentary Collection)<\/b><\/h3>

A bank draft allows the seller to request payment from the buyer\u2019s bank. When paired with a documentary collection, shipment documents (invoice, B\/L, CO, etc.) are handed over only upon payment or acceptance. It offers a secure, though less complex, alternative to letters of credit.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t

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