When trading in domestic markets the issue of documents does not concern the parties, as the only documents required are those relevant to the nature of the transaction and usually only entail documents required by the buyer.
International trade however extends the demand for documents to a range of aspects related to the transaction. International transactions engage activities not encountered in domestic trade, and these activities place their own demands on documentary requirements and content. Since the products being shipped will be destined for a foreign market, clear identification of the products will be required.
International trade documentation can fall into several categories each with their own requirements and functions - please click the category titles for an introduction to each of the listed documents:
- Commercial Documents
- - Commercial Invoice
- - Pro Forma Invoice
- - Quotation
- - Packing List/Note
- Shipping Documents
- - Export Cargo Shipping Instruction
- - Standard Shipping Note
- - Dangerous Goods Note
- Transport Documents
- - Ocean/Marine Bill of Lading
- - Non Negotiable Sea Waybill
- - Air Waybill
- Specific Documents
- - Certificate of Origin
- - Insurance Certificate/Policy
- - Movement Certificate EUR 1
- Other Specific Documents
- - Export Licences
- - Health Certificates
- - Scotch Whisky Documents
- - Consumption Certificates
- - Free Sale Certificates
- - Inspection Certificates
- - Conformity Delclarations
Failure in the correct and timely provision of required documentation at any stage of the transaction, can have a serious impact on the successful conclusion of the transaction.
The documents can be the first indication to the buyer of what he is to receive, and discrepancy in document content, will raise doubts in his mind as to whether he will receive the goods of the transaction and in accordance with the agreed contract terms.
Any such discrepancies, even if resolved, can impact on the development of a long term trading relationships with overseas buyers, as they need to be satisfied that the supplier can not only provide the contact goods, but adhere to the terms of the contract in all respects, with documentation being of paramount importance in this regard.
Edinburgh International Trade has developed International Trade OnLine, a web-based training guide, which not only discusses documentation in considerable detail but also provides a comprehensive guide on the completion of many of the most common documents used in international trade.
