Packing List Requirements
Every field customs expects to see — and why missing even one can hold your cargo at the port.
Packing List Field Checker
Tick every field you have on your document. We'll flag what's missing before customs does.
Critical fields missing. High risk of customs delay.
Parties
Document References
Cargo Details
Shipment Details
What Every Field Means
Not just what to write — why customs needs each field and what happens if it's wrong.
Marks & Numbers
MandatoryMust match exactly what is stencilled or labelled on the physical packages. Customs physically inspects marks against the document — discrepancies trigger holds.
Use the same format across your packing list, commercial invoice, and bill of lading.
Package Count
MandatoryCustoms counts packages on the dock. If your count doesn't match, the shipment is flagged immediately.
Include both total packages and breakdown per line item if you have multiple SKUs.
Net & Gross Weight
MandatoryNet weight = goods only. Gross weight = goods + packaging. Both are needed. Net for duty calculation, gross for freight and VGM compliance.
State units clearly — kg or lbs — and be consistent throughout the document.
Dimensions per Package
MandatoryUsed to verify CBM calculation, check container fit, and calculate chargeable weight for air freight. Customs also uses this to verify the cargo fits the declared packaging.
L × W × H in cm or inches. Match what's on the carton.
HS Code
RecommendedTechnically optional on the packing list but required on the commercial invoice. Including it on both speeds up classification and reduces queries.
Use the 6-digit international code minimum. Add the country-specific digits if you know them.
Country of Origin
MandatoryDetermines which tariff rate applies. Required for preferential duty treatment under free trade agreements.
This is where the goods were manufactured or substantially transformed — not where they were shipped from.
6 Mistakes That Get Packing Lists Rejected
Mismatched package count
The number of packages on your packing list doesn't match the bill of lading or what's physically loaded. Customs compares these documents — any discrepancy triggers a hold, a recount, and possible inspection.
Different descriptions across documents
Your packing list says 'electronic components', your commercial invoice says 'PCB assemblies', and your B/L says 'electrical goods'. Customs expects exact or near-exact matches. Inconsistency looks like concealment.
Missing weights or wrong units
Leaving net or gross weight blank, mixing kg and lbs without labelling, or rounding aggressively. Weight is used for duty calculation, VGM compliance, and freight billing — all three break if the data is wrong.
No marks and numbers
Omitting the marks and numbers field, or listing 'N/M' (no marks) when packages actually have shipping marks. Customs inspectors cross-check physical marks against documents — blank fields invite physical inspection.
One line for mixed cargo
Grouping multiple product types into a single line item. Each distinct product type should have its own line with its own weight, quantity, and HS code. Bundling raises classification questions.
Not matching the commercial invoice
The packing list and commercial invoice must describe the same shipment in consistent terms. Different quantities, different descriptions, or different invoice numbers between the two documents will cause a customs query every time.