{"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":"2026-03-23T13:15:02","modified_gmt":"2026-03-23T13:15:02","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
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

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

\n\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

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

\n\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t

DocShipper Tip<\/p>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

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

\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

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

\n\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t

DocShipper info<\/p>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

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

\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

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

\n\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t
\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

\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\r\n
\r\n \r\n Free Quote in 24h \r\n <\/path><\/svg> <\/span>\r\n <\/a>\r\n <\/div>\r\n\r\n \t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\"Sara\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\"Sarah\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\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\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t
\r\n Delivering Over 9,200 Operations for 6,000+<\/span> Clients<\/span> \r\n <\/div>\r\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
\"garmin-logo-docshipper-partner-150x150\"
<\/div><\/figure><\/div>
\"groupon-logo-docshipper-partner-150x150\"
<\/div><\/figure><\/div>
\"TOWRAI-logo-docshipper-partner-150x150\"
<\/div><\/figure><\/div>
\"lenco-marine-docshipper-partner-150x150\"
<\/div><\/figure><\/div>
\"MS-FRANCE-logo-docshipper-partner-150x150\"
<\/div><\/figure><\/div>
\"bouygues-logo-client\"
<\/div><\/figure><\/div>
\"anapurna-logo-client\"
<\/div><\/figure><\/div>
\"sfr-logo-client\"
<\/div><\/figure><\/div>
\"adt-logo-client\"
<\/div><\/figure><\/div>
\"cybergun-logo-client\"
<\/div><\/figure><\/div>
\"parco-olhain-logo-client\"
<\/div><\/figure><\/div>
\"bnp-paribas-logo-client\"
<\/div><\/figure><\/div>\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\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\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t

DocShipper Platform<\/p>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t

Optimize Your Global Logistics with Cutting-Edge Solutions<\/p>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

Enhance efficiency, cut costs, and gain 24\/7 visibility\u00a0 \"\"over your entire supply chain.<\/p>