Trade and customs
Packing list
Definition
A document listing each package in a shipment with its contents, batch numbers, net and gross weights and dimensions.
The packing list helps customs examine the cargo and helps the buyer check the delivery. For chemicals it should give the number and type of packages (for example 80 HDPE drums of 200 kg net), batch numbers, net and gross weight per package and in total, and container and seal numbers.
For dangerous goods, the list should also show the UN number and packing marks on each package type.
Related terms
- Commercial invoiceThe seller's final invoice for a shipment, used by customs to assess duty and by banks for payment.
- Bill of lading (BL)The document a sea carrier issues for cargo, serving as a receipt, evidence of the contract of carriage and, if negotiable, a document of title.
- Certificate of originA document certifying the country where the goods were produced, needed for customs and for preferential duty under trade agreements.