Shipping Documentation
The shipping documentation required for freight shipments varies, depending on whether you are shipping via air or sea. It also depends on whether you choose to drop your parcel off at a receiving centre/depot or have it collected.
Whichever shipping solution you choose, our specialised freight team will be here to advise you and ensure that you have all the documentation you need.
The following information is provided as a general guide to the types of documents required when shipping freight internationally. For further information, please contact us.
Air Waybill (for Air Freight)
An air waybill is required for all air freight shipments. This is the most important document, as it contains vital information including sender and delivery addresses. A copy is usually attached to every separate piece in your consignment.
Shipping label (for Sea Freight)
A shipping label must be attached to all sea freight consignments. It contains important information about your shipment including sender and delivery addresses. We will forward your labels to you after you have made an order.
Bill of Lading (for Sea Freight)
A Bill of Lading is required only for sea freight shipments. It entitles a named party to receive the shipped goods at the destination port. We prepare Bills of Lading for you once the vessel departs—we’ll send you a copy to forward to the receiver.
When Telex release is available, express Bills of Lading are issued electronically, rather than original copies. However, hard copies are available if requested at the time of booking.
Please note: For personal (non-commercial) sea freight shipments, a copy of the recipient’s passport is required before the vessel departs.
Packing list (Customs invoice)
A packing list, or customs invoice, is a document that details the contents and value of your goods for customs purposes. All shipments must be accompanied by a packing list. We can prepare these for you, though commercial shippers may use their own if preferred.