The following documents are commonly used in exporting, but specific requirements vary by destination and product. For assistance with country-specific documentation requirements, please contact the Trade Information Center at 1-800-USATRADE.

Shipper’s Export Declaration (SED)

The SED is the most common of all export documents. This document accompanies export shipments above $2,500 (U.S.), or shipments requiring an export license. It provides the U.S. Department of Census with accurate export statistics and allows for control of U.S. exports.

Commercial invoice

A commercial invoice describes goods shipped between the buyer and the seller. It includes the buyer and seller’ a description of the goods; the quantity; the amount paid and the terms of sale and date. These invoices are often used by governments to determine the true value of goods when assessing customs duties.

Certificate of Origin

The Certificate of Origin certifies the country of origin of the merchandise and is only required by some countries. In many cases, a statement of origin printed on company letterhead will suffice.

Bill of Lading

A bill oflading is a contract between the owner of the goods and the carrier (as with domestic shipments). The customer usually needs an original as proof of ownership to take possession of the goods.

Consular Invoice

Required in some countries, the consular invoice describes the shipment of goods and shows information such as the consignor, consignee, and value of the shipment. Ifrequired, copies are available from the destination country’s Embassy or Consulate in the U.S.

Inspection Certification

An inspection certification is required by some purchasers and countries in order to attest to the specifications of the goods shipped.

This is usually performed by a third party and often obtained from independent testing organizations.

Dock Receipt and Warehouse Receipt

A dock receipt and a warehouse receipt are used to transfer accountability when the export item is moved by the domestic carrier to the port of embarkation and is left with the ship line for export.

Destination Control Statement

The destination control statement appears on the commercial invoice and ocean or air waybill of lading to notify the carrier and all foreign parties that the item can be exported only to certain destinations.

Proforma Invoice

A proforma invoice acts as a preliminary invoice, presenting the same information as the final invoice without claiming payment. It allows the end purchaser to apply for letters of credit, import licenses or foreign exchange allocation.

For more detailed information, please visit Export.gov at: http://www.export.gov/logistics/exp_docs_forms.asp

Temporary Import Certificate /ATA CARNET

An ATA Camet (a. k. a. “Merchandise Passport”) is a document that facilitates the temporary importation of products into foreign countries by eliminating tariffs and value-added taxes (VAT) or the posting of a security deposit normally required at the time of importation.

Insurance Certificate

An insurance certificate ensures that insurance will cover the loss of or damage to the cargo during transit. These can be obtained from your freight forwarder.

Shipper’s Letter of Instruction

This letter provides details about shipment transportation, insurance, reference numbers and other important matters. It authorizes the carrier or freight forwarder to complete the export declaration and other documents necessary to prepare the contract for carnage.

Export Packing List

The export packing list is considerably more detailed and informative than a standard domestic packing list. An export packing list itemizes the material in each individual package and indicates the type ofpackage, such as a box, crate, drum, or carton. Both commercial stationers and freight forwarders carry packing list forms.

Import License

Import licenses are the responsibility of the importer. Including a copy of the import license with the rest of your documentation, however, can sometimes help avoid problems with customs in Italy.