What are some of the documents involved?
Bill of lading.
A bill of lading is a receipt, issued by the carrier, once cargo has been loaded onto a vessel. It can be used as proof of shipment for customs and insurance. It can also act as commercial proof that a contractual obligation has been completed – especially under Incoterms such as CFR and FOB.
The bill of lading details a shipment of merchandise, including the title of the goods. Once the carrier issues this document, they are required to deliver the cargo to the appropriate party.
Certificate of origin.
A certificate of origin helps to establish:
- Whether your product is entitled to preferential duties in the importing country.
- Your goods do not come from a nation which the importing country has placed trade restrictions against.
The certificate of origin must be certified and/or legalised by the relevant country’s Embassy and Chamber of Commerce.