Free Download:

Packing List

Download and print this PDF of a Packing List for use with your exports.

What is a Packing List?

While a packing list is not required by customs authorities in most countries, it is an important document in the export process.

The packing list may be used by the freight forwarder to prepare a bill of lading for the ocean or air carrier and to understand how much room is needed for the cargo. It may be used by banks as a supporting document presented for payment under a letter of credit or other payment terms. It may be used by U.S. Customs and Border Protection as well as by the customs authority in the country of import for compliance and duty liability.

A packing list is also used as a supporting document in the event of a dispute between the carrier and the exporter regarding the measurement and weight of the cargo.

Key Data Elements

In addition to including the basic details about the international transaction, the packing list will include:

The name and contact information of the exporter and ultimate consignee.
Details of which items appear in each of the packing containers.
Weight and measurements of each packing container.
Any marks and numbers including a container number and seal number if appropriate.
The total number of pieces and weight and measures of the entire shipment.
Any special instructions or additional information that is important for the shipment.

How to Create a Packing List for Your Exports

Create Accurate Export Forms

Reduce the time it takes to complete the CUSMA Certificate of Origin by up to 80%. Shipping Solutions export documentation software makes it easy to create more than two dozen standard export forms. Register now for a free demo. There's absolutely no obligation.

Packing List FAQs

How do you create a packing list for export?

A packing list should give detailed information about the contents of a shipment. It includes a list of the items being shipped, their quantities, and sometimes additional information like weights, dimensions and packaging details. The purpose of a packing list is to assist in inventory control, facilitate customs clearance and help with the verification of goods upon arrival. Download the free template on this page to create a packing list for your shipments.
Is a packing list a bill of lading?

The packing list and bill of lading are two different documents used for exports. The packing list may be used by the freight forwarder to prepare a bill of lading for the ocean or air carrier and to understand how much room is needed for the cargo. A bill of lading is a legal document that serves as a contract of carriage for the goods being transported.
Does customs require a packing list?

While a packing list is not required by customs authorities in most countries, it is an important document in the export process. The packing list may be used by the freight forwarder to prepare a bill of lading for the ocean or air carrier and to understand how much room is needed for the cargo.

Download Now

Looking for an easy way to complete export documents?

Today is your lucky day. Shipping Solutions® makes completing export forms simple, accurate and five-times faster than the tedious way you’re doing it now.

Watch How it Works play video

Get it done easily.

Eliminate the hassle of manually completing your export forms. Our EZ Start Screen helps you automatically complete more than a dozen export forms.

Get it done fast.

With Shipping Solutions automation, you can complete your export documents up to five-times faster than your traditional manual process.

Get it done right.

Instead of entering the same information over and over again, you enter information in only one place. That makes you less likely to make costly mistakes.