Packaging Import Compliance Checklist
Most customs delays are caused by a mismatch between the documents and the physical shipment, not by the goods themselves.
At a glance
- Commercial invoice with accurate material description
- Carton-reconciled packing list
- Certificate of origin in the required format
- Test reports and declarations where required
Overview
Most customs delays are caused by a mismatch between the documents and the physical shipment, not by the goods themselves. Use this checklist before the container is booked, not after it has sailed.
A short technical call usually resolves this faster than a long email thread.
Documents to Confirm
Check that the commercial invoice describes the material and finish accurately, that the packing list reconciles carton by carton, and that the origin document matches the destination's required format. Where a retailer or regulator requires a test report or material declaration, request it before production so it reflects the actual materials used.
- Commercial invoice with accurate material description
- Carton-reconciled packing list
- Certificate of origin in the required format
- Test reports and declarations where required
We document the agreed approach on the dieline or the quotation, not in a separate note.
Physical Marking
Confirm country-of-origin marking, carton numbering, gross and net weights, SKU codes and any retailer-specific labels. For timber pallets, verify ISPM 15 treatment and the accompanying declaration.
- Country-of-origin and SKU carton markings
- Gross/net weight and carton numbering
- Retailer-specific labels
- ISPM 15 treated pallets
Buyers in North America, Europe, the Middle East, Australia, New Zealand and Brazil rely on this because it removes ambiguity at the quotation stage.
Before the Balance Payment
Review the pre-dispatch photo pack and inspection report, and confirm the forwarder's cut-off date against the production finish date. Ask for a single consolidated PDF of every document so your broker can pre-clear the shipment.
- Pre-dispatch photo pack and AQL report
- Forwarder cut-off date confirmed
- Consolidated document PDF for the broker
- Written corrective actions where needed
The same standard applies to a first pilot run and to a full seasonal programme.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who prepares the certificate of origin?
- We prepare it in the format your broker specifies as part of the standard document pack.
- Do I need ISPM 15 pallets?
- If timber pallets are used, most destinations require ISPM 15 treatment; plastic pallets are an alternative.
- Can you hold the lot for inspection?
- Yes. We can hold dispatch until your nominated inspector issues the report.
Ready to specify your packaging?
Send your artwork, target size and quantity. Our engineering team replies with a structural suggestion, an FOB price and a sampling plan within one working day.
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