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Export Documents Checklist for First-Time Importers

Documentation 12 June 2026 4 min read

The papers every shipment needs — invoice, packing list, bill of lading, certificate of origin and more.

Start with the commercial set

A commercial invoice and packing list travel with every shipment. The invoice states value, Incoterm and payment terms. The packing list gives carton counts, net and gross weights and dimensions so your customs broker can clear goods without questions.

Transport documents

Sea shipments use a bill of lading; air shipments use an air waybill. Check the consignee, notify party and description of goods match your purchase order exactly before the document is released.

Origin and compliance

A certificate of origin proves where the goods were produced and can lower duty under trade agreements. Food, plant and wood products may also need a phytosanitary certificate, fumigation certificate or health certificate.

Keep one shared folder

We send scanned drafts for approval before originals are couriered. Approving drafts early avoids amendment fees and port delays.

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