Supply Chain Performance
Supply Chain Performance

Packing List: Its importance in transport

In the logistics field, efficient document management is key to the success of any transport operation. At FM Logistic, as experts in freight forwarding services, we understand…

On October 23, 2024

In the logistics field, efficient document management is key to the success of any transport operation. At FM Logistic, as experts in freight forwarding services, we understand that proper document control facilitates the smooth movement of goods and ensures better traceability of shipments. One of the essential documents in this process is the packing list, whose role is fundamental in land logistics.

What is packing list?

Packing list, also known as lista de empaque, is a document that details information about the contents of a shipment. In land transport, which is one of FM Logistic’s main services, this document provides an accurate description of the products being transported, from the number of boxes to the weight and volume of each one. This list is essential for both logistics operators and consignees, as it facilitates control and verification of the goods at all times.

Information to be contained

Although there is no standard template for the creation of the packing list, this document must comply with the requirements established by the European Commission’s European Marketplace. The exporter is free to structure it according to his own criteria, as long as it includes the necessary information to guarantee the correct transport of the goods.

The information that a packing list should contain is as follows:

  • Exporter’s data: Information of the sender or seller.
  • Importer’s data: Information of the consignee or buyer.
  • Order date: The date on which the purchase was made.
  • Shipment date: The day the goods are shipped.
  • Invoice number: Associated to the corresponding order.
  • Type of packaging: Specify the type of material used, such as bags, cartons, drums, etc.
  • Number of packages: Number of packages or units that make up the shipment.
  • Package contents: Detailed description of the products and the number of units per package.
  • Weight and dimensions: Detail the net weight, gross weight, dimensions and total volume of the packages.
  • Transport document number: To facilitate tracking and control of the shipment.
  • Economic value: To reflect the individual and total value of the products transported.

Related documents

In the field of logistics and international trade, there are several documents that play a crucial role in the export and transportation process. Some of the most relevant ones include:

  • Proforma Invoice: Document that functions as a quotation prior to the transaction, specifying the details of the sale before it is finalized.
  • Commercial Invoice: It is the official document that reflects the purchase and sale transaction, including the value of the goods and the necessary information for customs clearance.
  • Customs Invoice: Document required in some countries to facilitate customs clearance, detailing the value of goods for tariff purposes.
  • Consular Invoice: Issued by the consulate of the destination country, it certifies the veracity of the commercial invoice and facilitates the entry of goods.
  • Certificate of origin: Document that certifies the country of manufacture or production of the goods, used to determine whether free trade agreements or preferential tariffs apply.

In addition to the documents that facilitate the export, it is also essential to have those that are indispensable for the transportation of the goods:

  • CMR or contract for international carriage by road: This document regulates the conditions under which the carriage of goods by road is carried out between countries adhering to the CMR Convention.
  • Bill of Lading (B/L): Document certifying the carriage of goods by sea, detailing the contents of the shipment and serving as a contract of carriage.
  • Air Waybill: Similar to the B/L, this document certifies the shipment of goods by air, detailing the conditions of carriage.

These documents are essential to ensure that the goods reach their destination efficiently, complying with the legal and customs regulations of each country. At FM Logistic, we specialize in the management of all the necessary documentation so that the freight forwarding service is agile and safe. If you need more information, do not hesitate to explore our services.

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