Import documentation varies by country and product category, but the core documents are nearly universal:

Commercial Invoice — Details the transaction: seller, buyer, product description, quantities, unit prices, total value, and payment terms. This is the primary document customs uses to assess duties.

Packing List — Specifies how goods are packed: carton dimensions, weight per carton, number of cartons, total gross and net weight. Essential for logistics planning and customs inspection.

Bill of Lading (B/L) — The shipping contract and title document issued by the carrier. For sea freight, this is the original B/L; for air freight, an Air Waybill (AWB). You need the original (or a telex release) to claim your goods.

Certificate of Origin — Proves where the goods were manufactured. Required for customs clearance in many countries and for claiming preferential tariff rates under free trade agreements.

Depending on your product, you may also need: inspection certificates, phytosanitary certificates (for wood packaging), FDA registration (for US food-contact items), or CE compliance declarations (for EU electronics).