Logistics, Trade Administration and Supply Chain

The Packing List is a document prepared by the shipper listing all kinds and quantities of merchandise in a particular shipment. A copy of packing list is often attached to the shipment itself and another copy send directly to the consignee to assist in checking the shipment upon received. In other words, the packing list is also called a bill of parcels. The packing list includes the following elements: Name and address of the seller/shipper/consignor, Name and address of the buyer/consignee, Issuance date, Invoice number, Sales order or contract number, Quantity and description of the goods, Shipping details including weight of the goods, number of packages, shipping marks and shipping numbers, Quantity and description of contents of each package, cartons, crate or container, Any other information as required in the sales contract or documentary credit e.g. country of origin. The packing list is a more detailed version of the commercial invoice but without the price...

Documents play a key role in international transactions. Both buyers and sellers need documents for bookkeeping, accounting, taxation, export and import formalities, as well as making payments using letters of credit and other documentary payment methods. This segment will give some examples of the most commonly used documents in the international trade. It is not an exhaustive listing. Specialized trades, special circumstances and different countries of origin and destination may require additional documentation. Transaction Documents The key transaction document is the invoice or commercial invoice. This document is used by all parties to the transaction for accounting and bookkeeping purposes. It is also required for export and import formalities as well as most banking and payment procedures. Export Documents These are documents required by the customs or national export authority of the country of export and vary greatly from country to country. Included are licenses,...