Exporting Basics: Documentation
What is a proper commodity description?
To avoid delays, provide a detailed description of your commodity on your shipment documentation. This description must be consistent across all documents. List each commodity individually, with a separate description. Include in your description:
What the commodity is
What the commodity is made of
What the commodity will be used for
Whether the commodity is new or used
Whether or not the shipment is for resale
The HS number
Be precise! For example, when shipping parts for drilling machinery, instead of "parts," specifically describe the components: "drill bits, 1/4 forged steel." Avoid vague words or references such as Personal items, Promotional materials, Samples, Documents. Gifts, "See Commercial Invoice."
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