Export Documentation Checklist

Every document your shipment needs — and what to verify on each

Use this checklist when reviewing the document set for any shipment from Pakistan. Errors in these documents cause customs delays, demurrage and LC rejections — every line is worth the two minutes it takes to check.

Core Commercial Documents

Commercial invoice — prices, currency, incoterm + named port, HS codes, totals match the order confirmation exactly
Packing list — carton count, contents per carton, net & gross weights, dimensions; totals reconcile with invoice quantity
Bill of lading (B/L) — consignee & notify party correct, port pair correct, 'shipped on board' date, container and seal numbers match loading report
Beneficiary's certificate / shipment advice (if LC requires)

Origin & Preference Documents

Certificate of origin — issued by chamber of commerce, consistent with invoice
EU buyers: REX statement on origin (GSP+) for duty-free entry — verify the REX number is valid
UK buyers: origin declaration under DCTS for preferential duty
HS codes on origin documents match the invoice and your customs broker's classification

Quality & Compliance Documents

Final inspection report (AQL) — result PASS, signed, dated, matching this shipment's PO
Product certificates as contracted: OEKO-TEX / GOTS transaction certificate / GRS TC
Children's products (USA): CPC with third-party test reports per CPSIA
Fumigation certificate (if wooden pallets / specific destinations require)

Financial & Insurance Documents

Insurance certificate or policy (CIF: from seller, check coverage clauses; FOB/CFR: from your own insurer)
LC document set checked against every LC clause BEFORE presentation — dates, spellings, amounts, partial shipment terms
Bank's document courier tracking (or e-release/surrendered B/L confirmation)

Pre-Arrival Actions

Copy documents emailed to your customs broker at least 7 days before vessel arrival
ISF filing (USA: '10+2') submitted no later than 24h before loading at origin
Import licences / market registrations confirmed where applicable
Delivery booking at destination warehouse aligned with free-time window to avoid demurrage

Common Errors That Cause Delays

Error	Consequence
Consignee name differs from import registration	Customs hold at destination
Invoice total ≠ LC amount (even cents)	LC discrepancy fees / payment delay
HS code mismatch between invoice and CO	Preference denied — full duty charged
Late ISF filing (USA)	Penalties up to USD 5,000 + exam risk
B/L notify party left blank	No arrival notice — free time burns silently

MZ Global Trading prepares and pre-verifies this document set on managed shipments, with copies emailed promptly after vessel departure.

Disclaimer: This document is provided for general information only and does not constitute legal, customs or compliance advice. Figures reflect common trade practice and are indicative — always verify against your buyer specification, applicable regulations and your destination market.