Shipping Document Checklist
Build a practical document checklist for an import or export shipment.
Configure your shipment
Choose your transaction type, mode, and requirements. Your checklist will update automatically.
Your document checklist
5 documents required for your export shipment
Core commercial documents
(2)Transport documents
(1)Customs declarations
(1)Optional / conditional documents
(1)Need a professional documentation report?
Download a signed PDF with your full document checklist, item descriptions, transaction summary, and a unique reference number — saved to your IMEXLOG account.
Why use the IMEXLOG Shipping Document Checklist
Full document library
13 core documents with descriptions — so you know exactly what you need and why.
Track your progress
Mark documents as complete and see real-time progress as your shipment gets ready.
Print or PDF
Print a clean checklist for the warehouse, or download a signed PDF for records.
Related trade tools
Frequently asked questions
What shipping documents are required for export?▾
Standard export documents include a Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Bill of Lading (sea) or Air Waybill (air), and Export Customs Declaration. Additional documents may be required — such as a Certificate of Origin, insurance certificate, or product-specific permits — depending on the destination country and product.
What shipping documents are required for import?▾
Standard import documents include a Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Bill of Lading or Air Waybill, and Import Customs Declaration. Additional documents — such as a Certificate of Origin, insurance certificate, or import permits — may be required depending on the product and destination country.
What is a Bill of Lading?▾
A Bill of Lading (B/L) is a legal document issued by a carrier to a shipper. It serves three purposes: a receipt for the goods shipped, a contract of carriage, and a document of title. It is used for sea and inland waterway shipments. For air freight, the equivalent document is the Air Waybill (AWB).
When is a Certificate of Origin required?▾
A Certificate of Origin is required when the destination country demands proof of the country where the goods were manufactured. It is essential for preferential trade agreements (like USMCA, EU FTAs, AfCFTA), for quota purposes, and for certain statistical requirements.
Is the Shipping Documents Checklist free?▾
Yes, the IMEXLOG Shipping Documents Checklist is completely free with no sign-up required. If you need a professional PDF report with a signed checklist and reference number, you can optionally purchase one for $4.99.
What is included in the Professional Shipping Documentation Report?▾
The Professional Shipping Documentation Report includes the full checklist with all documents for your shipment, item descriptions, transaction summary, date and time stamp, and a unique reference number. It is saved to your IMEXLOG account.
Does the checklist include customs brokerage documents?▾
Yes. The checklist includes import or export customs declarations. Your customs broker may also require a Power of Attorney, broker authorization, and specific commodity documentation. Always confirm with your broker before shipping.
Can I use this checklist for any country?▾
The checklist provides a strong universal baseline for any international shipment. Country-specific and product-specific requirements can vary — always confirm the final checklist with the relevant customs authority or a licensed customs professional.
Important
Requirements vary by country, product, trade agreement, transport mode, and transaction. Verify the final checklist with the relevant authorities, carrier, and licensed customs professional before shipping. This checklist is a general guide, not legal advice.
Trade Guidelines
Full reference for international trade — Incoterms, documentation, customs, compliance.
IMEXLOG Trade Desk
Source, verify, connect, and move — coordinated by a dedicated specialist.
Need help with your shipment?
Use IMEXLOG to connect your documentation and logistics workflow — and get a specialist assigned within 24 hours.