Logistics & transporten
Packing list
Document detailing the contents of each package in a shipment: weight, dimensions, quantities, facilitating customs clearance and cargo verification.
Definition
A packing list is a commercial document describing in detail the physical contents of a shipment. It complements the commercial invoice and facilitates customs clearance, handling, and verification of goods.
Typical content
A packing list includes:
- Reference to the corresponding commercial invoice
- Identification of shipper and consignee
- For each package: number, dimensions (L × W × H), gross and net weight, detailed contents
- Type of packaging (cartons, pallets, crates, drums)
- Total number of packages, total gross and net weight
- Total volume of the shipment
- Package identification marks and numbers
Role in customs clearance
The packing list is essential for:
- Physical inspection by customs: inspectors can verify compliance between the declaration and actual contents
- Customs value determination: verification of declared quantities
- Freight calculation: basis for weight/volume pricing
Best practices
- The packing list must be consistent with the commercial invoice (references, quantities, descriptions)
- Mentioning the country of origin on the packing list facilitates tariff classification
- For multi-package shipments, number packages sequentially and indicate individual weights
- Attach the packing list to the outside of the first package to facilitate inspection