Essential Export Documentation Guide: Avoid Costly Delays

Proper export documentation is the backbone of successful international trade. One missing document or incorrect form can result in shipment delays, additional costs, and frustrated customers.

Why Proper Documentation Matters

Export documentation serves multiple purposes: it ensures legal compliance, facilitates customs clearance, enables proper payment collection, and provides insurance coverage. According to industry reports, documentation errors account for over 60% of shipment delays.

Essential Export Documents

1. Commercial Invoice

The commercial invoice is arguably the most important export document. It must include detailed product descriptions, quantity and unit of measure, unit price and total value, currency of sale, terms of sale (Incoterms), and buyer and seller information.

2. Packing List

The packing list provides detailed information about the shipment's contents.