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What Is a Packing List?
A packing list (also called a packing slip or shipping list) is a document that accompanies international shipments. It provides a detailed breakdown of the goods being shipped, including descriptions, quantities, weights, dimensions, and packaging information for each item in the consignment.
Packing lists are prepared by the shipper or exporter and are used by freight forwarders, customs brokers, warehouse operators, and consignees throughout the supply chain. They serve as the primary reference for verifying shipment contents at each handling point — from the origin warehouse through customs clearance to final delivery.
Unlike a commercial invoice which focuses on the financial aspects of a transaction, the packing list focuses on the physical characteristics of the goods. Together with the commercial invoice and bill of lading, the packing list forms the core set of documents required for international trade.
For a deeper dive into packing list fields, common formats, and how to automate data extraction, read our guide: How to Extract Data from Packing Lists (PDF to Excel).
Packing List vs. Commercial Invoice vs. Bill of Lading
| Document | Purpose | Key Information |
|---|---|---|
| Packing List | Describe physical contents & packaging | Quantities, weights, dimensions, package counts |
| Commercial Invoice | State financial terms of the sale | Unit prices, total value, payment terms, Incoterms |
| Bill of Lading | Contract of carriage & title to goods | Carrier info, routing, receipt of goods, negotiability |