Export and Import Documentation Quiz

Export and Import Documentation and Procedures

• There are three types of documentation for export and import: transportation, commercial, and financial.
• Accurate documentation is important for security and conformity requirements, shipment clearance, timely payment, and preventing disputes and delays.
• The commercial invoice is a document between the buyer and seller that supports customs declaration and payment.
• The exporter/seller usually prepares the commercial invoice, with assistance from the freight forwarder.
• The packing list is a detailed itemized list of articles in each shipping package, used for unloading, identification, inventory management, and customs inspection.
• The certificate of origin is a declaration by the exporter that goods in an export shipment are wholly obtained, produced, manufactured, or processed in a particular country.
• There are two main types of certificates of origin: generic and preferential, with different requirements and exemptions.
• An export permit is required for items on the export control list or exported to countries on an area control list.
• There are two types of export permits: general and individual, depending on the sensitivity of the goods.
• There are three methods to declare exports to the CBSA: Canadian Export Reporting System (CERS), G7 Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) Exporting Reporting, and Summary Reporting Program (SRP) via CERS.
• A Canadian Export Declaration is required for commercial goods moving to non-US destinations and valued over $2000, or for controlled or regulated goods requiring export permits.
• Improper or incomplete submission of the export declaration can result in penalties, with strict time frames varying by mode of transport.