Cross-Border E-commerce Sellers What Documents Are Required for International Sea Freight of E-commerce Goods?

What documents are needed in the international sea freight export process?

E-commerce sellers, please take note.

With the increasing frequency of global trade, more e-commerce sellers are involved in international sea freight exports. However, for many sellers, knowing how to prepare documents to ensure smooth cargo exports remains a challenge. This article will introduce the documents required in the international sea freight export process, helping you better address this challenge.

I. Export License

An export license is one of the important documents in the international sea freight export process. It is usually issued by national authorities to prove that the goods comply with export regulations and confirm the exporter's qualifications and responsibilities. When preparing an export license, you need to provide detailed information about the goods, basic information about the exporter, and relevant permits and approval documents.

II. Commercial Invoice

A commercial invoice is an invoice issued by the exporter to the buyer, listing details such as the name, quantity, price, mode of transport, and payment method of the goods. It is one of the key documents for customs clearance and an important reference for the buyer to receive the goods. When preparing a commercial invoice, you must ensure that the information is accurate, complete, and compliant with relevant regulations.

III. Certificate of Origin

A certificate of origin is a document proving the origin of the goods. It helps reduce tariffs and trade barriers, facilitating international trade. Common certificates of origin include the China-made certificate and the disease-free certificate. When preparing a certificate of origin, you need to provide detailed information about the goods, basic information about the exporter, and relevant supporting documents.

IV. Transport Documents

Transport documents are proof that the goods have been loaded and handed over to the carrier, including bills of lading, air waybills, etc. These documents are also key for customs clearance, used to prove ownership and transportation status of the goods. When preparing transport documents, you need to confirm relevant information with the carrier, such as the sailing schedule and freight charges, and ensure the documents are accurate and complete.

V. Packing List

A packing list is a list detailing the packaging information and details of the goods, usually provided to the consignee for detailed information about the goods. When preparing a packing list, you must ensure the information is accurate and clear, and complies with relevant regulations. You also need to provide information such as the dimensions and weight of the goods, so that customs and the consignee can understand the situation of the goods.

VI. Other Documents

In addition to the above documents, other documents may be required in the international sea freight export process, such as customs invoices, inspection and quarantine certificates, etc. The specific requirements for these documents may vary depending on the country, region, and trade agreements. Therefore, you need to understand the relevant regulations and prepare the corresponding documents.

In conclusion, important documents such as export licenses, commercial invoices, certificates of origin, transport documents, and packing lists are required in the international sea freight export process to ensure smooth cargo exports. When preparing documents, you should ensure that the information is accurate and complete, and understand the relevant regulations to smoothly clear customs and obtain legal profits.