GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 22, 2026

Export handling process

A typical international shipment confronts the exporter with a chain of documents, customs formalities, and transport handovers – the export handling process maps all of these from start to finish.

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Last updated: 22 June 2026Published: 19 June 2025

Source: https://wirtschaftslexikon.gabler.de/definition/exportabwicklung-40714

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Definition & Explanation

A typical international shipment confronts the exporter with a chain of documents, customs formalities, and transport handovers – the export handling process maps all of these from start to finish. It covers order receipt, preparation of trade documents (commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin), filing the export declaration with customs, booking transport, and arranging insurance through to physical handover to the carrier. Where the process ends depends on the agreed Incoterm: under EXW, the exporter's responsibility closes at the warehouse gate; under DAP or CIF, it extends to the named destination. A clearly defined export handling process reduces customs delays, limits liability exposure, and cuts avoidable costs – and is a prerequisite for AEO certification.

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