What is a Packing List used for?

When goods have been shipped, the exporter creates a Packing List to send with set of shipping documents to the consignee (importer) to arrange the clearance of goods. Freight forwarders, customs brokers and/or other supply chain partners will use the information from your Packing List document to correctly identify and transport cargo along the supply chain. Customs authorities in both the country of export and the country of import to understand how shipments have been packaged and loaded. Customs authorities also rely on this information in case they need to scan the container, or unload the container to inspect products or packages). Importers will also use the Packing List to identify products when goods are being unloaded from containers.

How to create a Packing List

1. Open IncoDocs

   Open IncoDocs in your browser and navigate to the “Export Docs” section.

2. Choose the Packing List template

   Click on 'New document set' and select the Packing List template along with any other export documents you wish to create.

3. Fill out & customize your doc

   Fill out the document, customize template fields to your needs and add your company letterhead. To save time and prevent re-entry errors, enter key shipment data into the Master File to have it sync across all other documents in your set automatically.

4. Sign & seal

   Click on the signature box at the bottom of your document to create and place a digital signature then hit “Save & Quit”. On the document preview screen, click on the ‘More’ dropdown button and select “Add company seal” to place a digital stamp.

5. Download or share

   Download or share documents from IncoDocs in 1-click. Documents can be downloaded as PDF or CSV which can be imported into other systems without manual re-entry.

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Your questions, answered.

What information is included on a Packing List Document?

It’s important that exporters include all information on the Packing List template to avoid having issues or delays when transporting the goods through customs. Typically, this information includes:

Who uses the packing list?

A packing list is a document used by various people involved in the shipping process. Below are some of the main parties:

What other documents must be accompanied by the Packing list?

The other documents that should accompany a packing list includes the commercial invoice, which details the transaction between buyer and seller. A bill of lading is also necessary; it acts as a receipt for shipped goods. In some cases, a certificate of origin, which verifies where the goods were made, is needed. Together, these documents help in shipping, customs clearance, and delivery processes.

How long does it take to fill out the Packing list?

Our Packing List is easy to fill and doesn't take long. You could be done under 5 minutes. Less if you are re-using the packing list because of our auto-fill feature.

Is this Packing List template free to use?

Yes, the Packing List template is free to use at IncoDocs. You can sign up for a free account and access the template, along with other useful documentation tools, at no cost.