Commercial invoice
Seller and buyer details, an accurate description of the goods, quantities, values, currency and the agreed sale terms. Avoid vague descriptions such as “parts” or “samples” without further detail.
Shipping guide
Better prepared.
Better connected.
Practical information for importers, exporters and purchasing teams — from the first cargo details to the final delivery handover.
01 / Documents
Get the essentials
in one place
Requirements vary by cargo and destination. This checklist is a starting point for a shipment discussion.
Packing list
Package count, packaging type, net and gross weights, dimensions and shipping marks. Make sure the information matches the cargo as packed.
Shipping instructions
Shipper and consignee particulars, origin, destination and any notify-party information. Check names and addresses before transport documents are issued.
Product-specific documents
Depending on the goods, origin and destination, a shipment may require permits, licences, certificates of origin, safety data or inspection documents. Identify these requirements early.
02 / Trade terms
Agree who does what
Always specify the named place or port and the edition, for example “FCA [named place], Incoterms® 2020”.
| Rule | Transport | Key point to discuss |
|---|---|---|
| EXW | Any mode | Goods are made available at the named place. Loading and export formalities need particular attention.|
| FCA | Any mode | The seller delivers to the buyer-nominated carrier at the named place and handles export clearance.|
| FOB | Sea / inland waterway | Risk transfers when goods are on board the vessel at the named port of shipment.|
| CIF | Sea / inland waterway | The seller arranges freight and specified insurance to the destination port; risk transfers on board at origin.|
| DAP | Any mode | The seller delivers ready for unloading at the named destination. The buyer handles import clearance and duties.|
| DDP | Any mode | The seller carries import-clearance and duty obligations. Confirm the ability to fulfil these in the destination country.
These summaries are an introduction, not the complete rules. Incoterms allocate specified delivery obligations, costs and risks; they do not determine ownership or payment terms. Confirm the applicable rule in the sales contract.
03 / Cargo preparation
Pack for the journey,
not just the departure
Freight may be lifted, stacked and transferred several times before it reaches the receiver.
Measure the finished package
Use the external dimensions and gross weight after packing. Include pallets, protective materials and any protruding parts.
Make handling instructions clear
Identify fragile goods, non-stackable packages and lifting points. Labels support suitable packaging; they do not replace it.
Check timber packaging
Solid wood packaging may be subject to ISPM 15 requirements. Confirm what applies to the destination and the materials used.
Declare regulated contents
Batteries, chemicals, aerosols and other controlled goods can affect transport acceptance. Provide accurate descriptions before shipment.
04 / Common questions
Know what to ask
Is the freight rate the total landed cost?
Not necessarily. Check origin and destination handling, collection, delivery, customs-related charges, duties, taxes, insurance and any storage or waiting charges. Ask which items are included and which are excluded.
Is cargo insurance included automatically?
Do not assume that freight charges include cargo insurance. Carrier liability and cargo insurance are different. Confirm the coverage required, insured value, exclusions and the party responsible for arranging it.
Why can an estimated arrival date change?
Schedules can be affected by capacity, weather, congestion, transshipment connections, inspections and other operational conditions. An estimated arrival is not a guaranteed delivery appointment.
What does chargeable weight mean?
Transport charges may be based on actual weight or a volume-related calculation, depending on the mode and agreed tariff. Provide accurate packed dimensions and weight so the applicable basis can be checked.
What should I check when cargo arrives?
Check the package count and visible condition against the delivery documents. Record discrepancies promptly, keep photographs where relevant and follow the applicable reporting procedure and time limits.
Can I book a shipment through this website?
This website provides company and service information. It does not accept bookings or payments. A shipment requires a separately agreed scope, quotation and booking confirmation.