Trade documentation checklist: everything you need to ship

International shipments require a stack of documents. Missing even one can delay customs clearance by days or weeks. This checklist covers the most common documents and when each is needed.

Always Required

• Commercial invoice — Basis for customs valuation. Required for every shipment.
• Packing list — Details how goods are packed. Required by customs and the consignee.
• Transport document — Bill of lading (sea), air waybill (air), or CMR note (road).

Often Required

• Certificate of origin — Needed for duty preferences or when the importing country mandates it.
• Insurance certificate — Required under CIF/CIP Incoterms or if the buyer's LC demands it.
• Customs declaration — Filed electronically in most countries by the customs broker.

Product-Specific

• Phytosanitary certificate — For plant-based products.
• Veterinary certificate — For animal products.
• Halal certificate — For food and cosmetics entering Muslim-majority markets.
• CE declaration of conformity — For regulated products entering the EU.
• Test reports / inspection certificates — Often required by the buyer or LC terms.

On Faktorist

The platform's Document Checklist widget auto-generates a list of required documents based on product type, origin, destination, and Incoterm. Check items off as you prepare them.