Understand the key documents required for import, export, customs clearance and international freight movement.
Learn the purpose of commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, air waybill, shipping bill, bill of entry, certificate of origin, IEC and letter of credit in one simple guide.
These are the most commonly used documents for international imports, exports and customs clearance.
Declares shipment value, buyer, seller and goods for customs clearance.
Details package count, dimensions, weight and packing information.
Primary transport document issued for ocean freight shipments.
Transport document used for international air cargo shipments.
Mandatory export document filed with Indian Customs.
Required by importers for customs clearance of incoming cargo.
Certifies the country where the goods were manufactured.
Confirms cargo insurance coverage during transportation.
Business identification number required for import and export in India.
A secure payment instrument issued by banks for international trade.
A quick reference for the most common documents used in international freight forwarding, customs clearance and global trade.
| Document | Purpose | Issued By |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial Invoice | Declares shipment value and product details for customs. | Exporter / Seller |
| Packing List | Lists package quantity, dimensions and weight. | Exporter |
| Bill of Lading (B/L) | Evidence of receipt of cargo and transport contract. | Shipping Line / Carrier |
| Air Waybill (AWB) | Transport document for air cargo shipments. | Airline / Air Carrier |
| Shipping Bill | Required to export goods from India. | Indian Customs |
| Bill of Entry | Required to clear imported cargo. | Importer / Customs Broker |
| Certificate of Origin | Confirms the country where goods were manufactured. | Authorized Chamber / Government Agency |
| Insurance Certificate | Proof that cargo is insured during transit. | Insurance Company |
| Import Export Code (IEC) | Business registration required for import/export in India. | DGFT |
| Letter of Credit (L/C) | Secure payment instrument in international trade. | Buyer's Bank |
The exact documents required depend on the shipment type, country regulations and Incoterms® agreed between buyer and seller.
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Answers to common questions about shipping documents used in international trade.