Shipping your product overseas requires attention to detail.  There are licensing and documentation issues to consider and the documentation involved must be completed properly or your product may sit in a warehouse or on the dock unable to be delivered.    This section will answer some of your questions about what you will need.  The resource library at the ITRC houses more in depth information crucial to understanding and complying with the requirements for exporting your products and services worldwide.  Sample forms are on hand and our export specialists are available to provide you with individualized assistance.   Please contact us with questions or to arrange a counseling session.


Licensing & Documentation

There are licensing and documentation issues to consider when exporting. This section will answer some of your questions about what you will need; please contact us with any additional questions you have.

Export Licensing

All products exported from the U.S. are subject to U.S. Export Administration Regulations. Some products are controlled by the Commodity Control List and require written permission from the Bureau of Industry and Security to be exported. Others can be exported using a License Exemption granted in the law. Items of military interest are controlled by the U.S. Department of State while food and drugs are controlled by the Food and Drug Administration. For more information, contact the Bureau of Industry and Security.

Shipping

Since international shipments involve a variety of considerations, including transportation method, documentation, packaging, labeling, and insurance, as well as a higher risk of loss or damage, it is wise to utilize the services of a freight forwarder.

A freight forwarder will:

• Advise on the most effective mode of shipment (ocean, air, land) and method of transportation (containerized, consolidated, bulk, etc.).
• Book space for your cargo on a common carrier.
• Coordinate the movement of your cargo to port and arrange storage if needed.
• Prepare necessary documentation.
• Arrange insurance coverage.
• Assist with entry, customs clearance and delivery at the country of destination.
• Provide necessary information you will need for quotation purposes.

Packaging

When deciding on a packing method, consider whether you will be charged by weight or volume. Also take precautions to make sure your products arrive at their destination in good condition. Keep in mind that international shipping involves excessive handling and exposure to climatic conditions. Your shipment should be packed in sturdy containers that are well-distributed, well-sealed and moisture resistant.

It is a good idea to pack containers on pallets for greater ease in handling and to avoid separation or loss of multi-package shipments. Shrink-wrapping, sealing or the use of strapping will also help safeguard against theft when your shipment is in storage or on the dock.

Labeling

Labeling on cartons or containers should:

• Avoid mention of contents and conceal the brand name to safeguard against theft.
• Include markings in both English and the language of the destination point, or in picture symbols, to indicate proper handling.
• Feature markings that meet shipping regulations, the specifications of the overseas buyer, legal requirements of both the U.S. and the country of destination, number of packages, number of cartons, weight and size.
• Include country of origin clearly marked on the outer cartons.
• Clearly mark complete address of the consignee and include second label inside in case of damaged packaging.
• Include any marks or numbers (i.e., purchase order number) that will help the consignee identify the packages.

Export Documents

Commonly used export documents include the following. To download a printable copy of some of these forms, go to Export.gov:

• Bill of Landing
• Certificate of Origin
• Commercial Invoice
• Consular Invoice
• Delivery Instructions
• Destination Control Statement
• Dock Receipt, Warehouse Receipt
• Export Packing List
• Inspection Certification
• Insurance Certificate
• Shipper's Export Declaration (SED)
• Export License
• Transmittal Letter