Export checklist
This checklist shows which documents are typically required for exports by sea freight from Germany. Which of them apply to your shipment depends on the goods, their value and the destination country – we check this for you before every booking.
Basic documents for every export shipment
- Commercial invoice – shipper, consignee, exact description of goods, quantity, value, currency, delivery terms (Incoterm) and ideally the HS code.
- Packing list – number and type of packages, dimensions, gross and net weights, markings.
- EORI number of the exporter – required for commercial exports from the EU.
- Export declaration (ATLAS) – filed electronically with German customs for goods worth more than EUR 1,000 or weighing more than 1,000 kg. After exit you receive the exit confirmation as proof, e.g. for VAT purposes.
- Bill of lading or sea waybill – issued by the shipping line after loading; we take care of the coordination.
- VGM – the verified gross mass of the packed container must be reported before loading.
Additionally, depending on the goods
- Proof of origin – certificate of origin from the chamber of commerce or proof of preferential origin (e.g. EUR.1 or statement on origin), so the consignee may save duty.
- Export licence (BAFA) – for dual-use goods or shipments to embargoed countries.
- Dangerous goods declaration (IMDG) – for batteries, chemicals, paints, vehicles with fuel, etc.
- Wood packaging according to ISPM 15 – solid wood pallets and crates must be treated and marked.
- Certificates – e.g. conformity, health or phytosanitary certificates.
Specifics by destination region
| Region | What to look out for |
|---|---|
| West Africa | Many countries require an electronic cargo tracking note (e.g. ECTN or BESC) before shipment. Without it, heavy penalties may be imposed at the port of destination. |
| Middle East / Gulf | Invoices and certificates of origin sometimes have to be legalised by the chamber or consulate. Saudi Arabia requires product conformity certificates (SABER). Currently: note the situation in the Strait of Hormuz. |
| North and Central America | The USA requires advance cargo filings (24-hour rule, ISF "10+2" by the importer). Precise descriptions of goods are mandatory – generic terms such as "spare parts" are not sufficient. |
| Australia / New Zealand | Strict biosecurity rules: cargo and containers must be clean. During the season (roughly September to April), treatment against the brown marmorated stink bug is required for certain goods. |
| Far East | Precise descriptions and HS codes on all documents; registrations or certificates in the destination country for certain goods. |