# Import Cargo Documentation

*Last updated: 2026-06-24*

> When a freight forwarder clears an ocean freight shipment through customs, the standard documentation set includes a commercial invoice, packing list and bill of lading—supplemented, depending on the commodity and applicable trade agreements, by a certificate of origin, conformity certificate or phytosanitary certificate.

When a freight forwarder clears an ocean freight shipment through customs, the standard documentation set includes a commercial invoice, packing list and bill of lading—supplemented, depending on the commodity and applicable trade agreements, by a certificate of origin, conformity certificate or phytosanitary certificate. Import cargo documentation is the legal basis on which customs authorities assess duties and decide whether to release the goods. Exact requirements depend on the destination country, the HS tariff heading and any preferential trade regime in force. Incomplete or contradictory documents routinely trigger customs holds, demurrage and storage charges; in serious cases, the shipment may be refused entry altogether.

**Source:** [https://www.iata.org/en/programs/trade/cargo/Pages/glossary.aspx](https://www.iata.org/en/programs/trade/cargo/Pages/glossary.aspx)

## Quick Facts

| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Term | Import Cargo Documentation |
| Language | EN |
| Word count | 103 |
| Last updated | 2026-06-24 |
| Source | https://www.iata.org/en/programs/trade/cargo/Pages/glossary.aspx |

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