by A packing list is a document used in international trade, that provides the exporter, the international freight forwarder, and the ultimate consignee with information about the shipment. This list also includes details about how the shipment is packed and the marks and numbers that are noted on the outside of the boxes.
An export packing list must always include information about the number of units, boxes, and any other available packaging information.
The information must match the Commercial Invoice and should reflect the same parties to the transaction. It should also clarify if solid wood was used to pack the shipment. Most countries enforce certain Fumigation and Heat Treatment regulations when it comes to transporting wooden materials.
Additionally, the packing list must include a Fumigation or Heat Treatment Certificate and must comply with the Lacey Act.
Packing list important
There are a few reasons why a packing list is so important when exporting goods from a given country. Here are some of the reasons:
- It provides a count for the product that is being released.
- It also serves as proof of the inland bill of lading.
- It indicates the details required for a Certificate of Origin.
- It provides much of the detail needed by the Electronic Export Information section in the Automated Export System.
- It serves as proof of a Material Safety Data Sheet, in the case that goods are deemed hazardous or dangerous.
- It is used to create a booking with the international carrier, as well as the issuance of the international Bill of Lading.
- It helps the partnered customs broker when entering the listed goods in their country’s import database, as it contains important information.
- It serves as a guide for the receiver/buyer when counting the product that they received.
- It serves as a supporting document for reimbursement under a letter of credit.
When creating a packing list, make sure to include as much detail as possible about the shipment. Some important details to include are:
- Date
- Shipper and exporter contact information
- Consignee contact information
- The origin address of cargo
- The destination address of cargo
- Total number of packages within this shipment
- A detailed description of each package
- The volume and weight of each package
- The volume and weight of the entire shipment
- Commercial invoice number for this shipment
