An overview of phytosanitary certificates, certificates of origin, packing lists and transport documents.
Requirements differ by product, origin and destination, and they change over time. Always confirm current rules with the destination authority — for Great Britain, the official guidance published on GOV.UK — before shipping.
Documents most shipments need
- Commercial invoice and packing list.
- Transport document — a bill of lading (sea) or air waybill (air).
- Phytosanitary certificate for regulated plants and plant products, issued by the exporting country's plant protection organisation.
- Certificate of origin where preferential tariff treatment or the buyer requires it.
Additional documents buyers may request
Quality or inspection certificates, fumigation certificates for certain bagged goods and wooden packaging, laboratory analyses (for example moisture, aflatoxin or pesticide residues), and scheme certificates where the producer holds them.
This guide is general information, not legal or customs advice. Always confirm current requirements with the relevant authority or your customs adviser.