What is a packing list?
A packing list is a document used in international trade. It provides exporters, international freight forwarders and final consignees with information about the shipment, including how the shipment was packaged, the dimensions and weight of each package, and the markings and numbers on the outside of the box.
Why do I need a packing list?
A packing slip provides you with information about your shipment and requires your signature upon receipt.
It is only required when the goods being transported are packaged into larger units (for example, containers or aircraft consoles).
What is the purpose of a packing list?
It can be said that the packing list is one of the important documents for sending or receiving shipments.
Therefore, it plays a fundamental role in achieving the efficiency of the entire transport process.
The shipping department uses this document to enable them to know the delivery details of the goods.
It allows shippers to ensure that they have included all items in the shipment.
Additionally, recipients or consignees can refer to this document to confirm that each item is included in the shipment.
Also, packing slips help with order management.
It facilitates smooth transition, processing and shipping of orders.
Order management mainly involves managing the life cycle of a product and keeping track of it until it reaches the customer's destination.
As a result, entities can easily check and track the status of product shipments, simplifying the management process.
This is also important when an order arrives in multiple packages.
In this case, what it does is keep track of what has and hasn't arrived.
As a seller, you may also consider using this document as an additional branding opportunity.
Ideally, you can create a design similar to your brand and use microcopy to express your voice.
Why is a packing list important in shipping?
- Physical proof of the item shipped
- Check and Cross Check
- Identification of lost or damaged goods
- Strengthen business relationships
- Allow customs to estimate the value of goods
- Express freight booking
Is there a legal requirement to provide a packing list in international shipments?
Different countries have different policies on the need for import orders.
In some countries, a packing list is a mandatory requirement for any type of imported product.
Essentially, this document is always required by the customs authorities of these countries to clear the goods
On the other hand, some countries only require packing lists for certain imported products.
Simply put, there are certain products that can only be cleared at customs after submitting a packing list.
In short, the legality of this document is based on whether it is mandatory or not, depending on the specific country.
