Export Documentation Checklist: Everything You Need

Export documentation is the administrative backbone of international trade. A missing or incorrect document delays your shipment, creates customs issues, and frustrates your buyer.

Core Export Documents

Commercial Invoice

The commercial invoice is your bill to the buyer. It includes detailed product description, quantity and unit of measurement, unit price and total value, HS code, terms of sale, payment terms, and currency.

Packing List

The packing list describes how goods are physically packaged and loaded. It includes container numbers and gross weights, individual package weights and dimensions, and marks and numbers on containers.

Bill of Lading

Your proof of shipment to the carrier. Essential for collecting payment from your buyer.

Certificate of Origin

This document certifies that your goods are genuinely produced in India, entitling them to tariff benefits in many importing countries.

Phytosanitary Certificate

For fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, and many agricultural products, phytosanitary certification is mandatory.

Product-Specific Documents

For Spices and Processed Foods

Test Certificates showing aflatoxin, pesticide residue, microbial, and moisture testing results.

For Fresh Produce

Cold Chain Documentation showing temperature and humidity data logger records.

Key Takeaway

Export documentation is your protection and your buyer's assurance. Each document serves a specific purpose. Take documentation seriously—prepare carefully, verify thoroughly, and maintain organized records.

Orgaluv manages all export documentation in-house for our agricultural shipments. Contact Orgaluv to discuss documentation support for your exports from India.