Which Documents Are Required for Export and Import?
The documents required for an export or import operation vary by product, destination country and transport mode.
Which Documents Are Required for Export and Import?
The documents required for an export or import operation vary by product, destination country and transport mode. However, the basic set of documents is similar for every shipment.
Basic set of documents
- Commercial invoice: type, quantity, value of the goods and delivery terms.
- Packing list: number of packages, gross and net weight, dimensions.
- Customs declaration: the official declaration for export or import.
- Transport document: CMR, bill of lading (B/L), AWB or CIM.
Origin and movement certificates
To benefit from preferential customs duty, an A.TR (Türkiye–EU), EUR.1 or certificate of origin is required, depending on the destination country.
Product-specific documents
- Health/veterinary certificate for food and animal products; phytosanitary certificate for plant products.
- ISPM-15 mark and fumigation certificate for wooden packaging.
- SDS and ADR/IMDG/IATA documents for dangerous goods.
- Conformity documents (CE, TSE) for technical products and TAREKS inspection on import.
Transit and insurance
In transit transport, T1/T2 or a TIR carnet, a cargo insurance policy for risk management and, where necessary, letter-of-credit documents are requested. You can find all documents with examples on our transport documents page.
Frequently asked questions
Which documents are requested most often in exports?
Commercial invoice, packing list, export declaration, transport document and, if necessary, origin/movement certificate and product-specific certificates.
Is a customs broker mandatory?
Declaration procedures are carried out by a customs broker or authorised persons; the broker reduces the risk of error by checking compliance with legislation and documents.
What are the consequences of missing documents?
Waiting at customs, additional costs, fines and delivery delays may occur.