What documentation is required for customs clearance?
All shipments are different and specific documentation will depend on a multitude of differing factors such as product type, origin/destination, or even mode of transportation. However, some common examples are as below:
Airway Bill / Bill of Lading – The carrier will issue a transportation document, to provide evidence of a carriage contract and to indicate ownership of the goods.
Commercial Invoice – This document will provide all relevant details about the shipped goods, including values, quantities, descriptions and incoterms.
Packing List – An inventory of the goods being shipped, detailing quantities, weights and dimensions.
Certificate of Origin – This document will certify where the goods have been produced, thus qualifying them for any applicable preferential tariffs.
Phytosanitary Certificate (for plants/plant products) – Provides specific details about the plants being shipped, confirming that they comply with the relevant health standards.
Import/Export Licence – Some goods may require a license to be shipped. Typical examples are certain pharmaceuticals or chemicals.
Dangerous Goods Certificate – When shipping dangerous goods, a certificate must be produced to ensure the goods adhere to the required packing specifications for safe transit.
All required documentation must be accurate and produced in a timely fashion to avoid delays to your supply chain. If you are unsure of the documentation required to ship your goods internationally, then NNR’s vastly experienced team can assist you in evaluating your process to mitigate any shortcomings.