What documents are required for international shipping?

The most common documents required for international shipping include: Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Bill of Lading (sea) or Air Waybill (air), Certificate of Origin, Shipper's Declaration for Dangerous Goods (if applicable), Insurance Certificate, and Import/Export License (for restricted goods). Requirements vary by country, mode, and cargo type.

What is the difference between Bill of Lading and Air Waybill?

A Bill of Lading (B/L) is used for sea freight and serves three purposes: receipt of goods, evidence of the contract of carriage, and document of title (ownership). An Air Waybill (AWB) is used for air freight and serves as a receipt and contract of carriage, but is NOT a document of title — the consignee does not need the original AWB to receive goods.

Free Shipping Document Checklist — Required Documents for International Shipments

Shipping Document Checklist

Generate a customized document checklist for your shipment. Select your options below and get a printable list of all required paperwork.

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Essential Shipping Documents Explained

Commercial Invoice: Bill of sale between exporter and importer. Required for customs valuation and duty calculation.
Packing List: Detailed list of contents, weights, and dimensions of each package. Used for customs inspection and warehouse handling.
Bill of Lading (B/L): Sea freight contract of carriage, receipt, and document of title. Original required to release goods.
Air Waybill (AWB): Air freight receipt and contract. Not a document of title — goods can be released without original.
Certificate of Origin: Proves the country of manufacture. Required for tariff preference under FTAs and for import licensing.
Insurance Certificate: Proof of cargo insurance coverage. Required for CIF/CIP terms and L/C shipments.

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Essential Shipping Documents Explained

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