Documentation Hub

8 essential freight documents — when you need them, what they contain, and how they connect.

Doc checklist tool Incoterms guide

Shipping documents

Shipper's Letter of Instruction (SLI)

Instructions from the shipper to the forwarder covering cargo details, routing, and documentation requirements.

Bill of Lading (B/L)

Contract of carriage and document of title for ocean and multimodal shipments.

Packing List

Detailed breakdown of packages, weights, dimensions, and marks for warehouse and customs.

Air freight

Air Waybill (AWB)

Non-negotiable contract of carriage for air freight — equivalent to a B/L for air shipments.

Customs & compliance

Commercial Invoice

Seller's invoice stating value, quantity, and description of goods for customs and payment.

Dangerous Goods Declaration (DGD)

Declares hazardous cargo per IMDG (ocean) or IATA DGR (air) regulations.

Certificates

Certificate of Origin

Certifies where goods were manufactured — may unlock preferential duty rates under trade agreements.

Insurance Certificate

Proof of cargo insurance coverage for the shipment period.