Required documents for international shipping

Most international shipments require the same core set of documents, though your specialist will confirm exactly what's needed for your specific commodity, mode, and destination.

Standard documents

• Commercial Invoice — declared value, HS code, and country of origin for each item.
• Packing List — dimensions, weights, and number of packages.
• Bill of Lading (ocean) or Air Waybill (air) — the contract of carriage and receipt for your cargo.
• Certificate of Origin — required by some destination countries or trade agreements.
• Import/Export Licences — for controlled or regulated goods only.

Depending on your cargo

• Dangerous goods require a Dangerous Goods Declaration and UN-compliant packaging documentation — see Dangerous goods classification.
• Pharmaceutical and temperature-sensitive cargo may require GDP-related documentation — see GDP compliance for pharmaceutical shipments.
• Food and agricultural products often require phytosanitary or health certificates specific to the destination country.