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Freight from the USA
 

Select your destination country above, follow a few steps, and find the cost of international shipping from the USA.

What documents are required for shipping cargo from the United States?

Commercial Invoice Vs. Valued Packin List

If you're wondering what documents are needed to ship from the USA, this guide provides a clear checklist for exporters and individuals shipping goods internationally.

Transporting goods from the United States overseas may require different sets of documents, depending on the type of commodity and the destination country.

However, if you ship from the USA a general commodity, most of the time, you will need to submit the following:

 

Essential documents are generated in the order they are required for shipping from the USA using LCL freight.

1. A quote from an international shipping companyThe estimated cost of international shipping to the shipper. Quotes are based on the information provided by the shippers. If there are changes in the cited conditions, quotes are subject to change.

2. Booking request to the international shipping companyThe agreement between the shipper and the international transportation company to initiate the shipment.

3. Booking Confirmation - This is issued by the carrier, confirming the reserved space on the vessel.

4. Warehouse Receipt from a cargo consolidatorA document that proves that a load is delivered to a sea freight carrier's terminal (CFS - Container Freight Station).

5. Commercial InvoiceA bill from the seller to the buyer, listing the commodity, value, and terms of sale (if applicable). It must include a description of the items, HS codes, quantity, value, and seller/buyer information.

6. Packing ListDetailed Shipment Breakdown: Itemized content, weight, and packaging type.

7. Export Declaration (EEI via AES) - Required when the value exceeds $2,500 or if an export license is needed. It is filed electronically through the Automated Export System (AES) in the U.S.

8. Shipper’s Letter of Instructions (SLI)Authorizes a carrier to initiate international freight release procedures.

9. Proof of Bill of Lading sketch of a Bill of Lading. Proof that freight has been released for export from the United States.

10. Sea freight Bill of Lading (BOL)Issued by the sea freight carrier as proof that the cargo is on board the vessel. It is the final contract of carriage and the title for the consignment. Ocean Bill of Lading (Negotiable or Non-negotiable / Express Release)

 

Other Possible Paperwork (Depending on Cargo or Destination)

1.  Certificate of Origin Proves where the merchandise was manufactured. Required for customs in some countries.

2. Insurance Certificate - This proves coverage if you purchased cargo insurance.

3. Import/Export LicensesNeeded for restricted or controlled commodities (e.g., chemicals, electronics, defense items).

4. Dangerous Goods Declaration (if applicable)Required for hazardous materials (must follow IMDG code for ocean freight).

5.  Certain countries or regions require specific information for imported goods. For example:

When exporting goods from the United States, the exporter and importer must ensure that proper documentation is submitted at the origin and destination. If you're unsure about the requirements of your country, contact its consulate in the United States or consult a licensed customs broker in the destination country.

For more information on preparing export documents for shipping from the U.S., we recommend visiting Intertek.com. Contact them if you have questions.

 
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