What Are The Documents Used in Foreign Trade?

Foreign trade involves numerous documents to ensure compliance, facilitate transactions, and standardize processes. These documents play a key role in implementing what is foreign trade policy, which governs international trade relationships and regulations. This blog will list and explain documents used in foreign trade, categorized for better understanding.

 

Customs Declaration Form

The Customs Declaration Form is a critical document submitted to customs authorities. It declares the type, quantity, and value of goods being imported or exported, serving as the basis for calculating customs duties. his is one of the most commonly used foreign trade documents.

 

Commercial Invoice

The Commercial Invoice is a document that provides detailed information about the goods, their value, and the terms of sale. It is one of the most important documents used in foreign trade as it serves as proof of the transaction.

 

Proforma Invoice

The Proforma Invoice is a preliminary bill of sale sent to buyers before shipment. It provides an estimate of costs and is not a payment request but an agreement on the transaction details. It is categorized under documents used in external trade.

 

Freight Invoice

The Freight Invoice is issued by the freight company, detailing shipping charges and additional costs incurred during transportation. It is an important document used in foreign trade for accounting and logistics.

 

Certified Invoice / Consular Invoice

This document, certified by the consulate of the importing country, provides information about the shipment. It helps ensure compliance with the importing country's regulations and is a vital part of documents used in international trade.          

 

Circulation Documents

Circulation documents are essential for tracking and ensuring the proper movement of goods. Below are the types of documents used in foreign trade under this category:

 

A.TR Movement Certificates

In accordance with the Customs Union established between Turkey and the European Union, the A.TR Movement Certificate is used for exporting processed agricultural and industrial products to EU countries. This document ensures "Free Movement of Goods" based on mutual tariff concessions. This is one of the documents used in foreign trade.

Countries for which A.TR Certificates are issued include:

  • Germany, Austria, Belgium, and many others within the EU.

 

EUR.1 Medium Certificate

The EUR.1 Certificate is issued for exports to EFTA (European Free Trade Association) countries, ECSC (European Coal and Steel Community) products, and countries with free trade agreements with Turkey. It also applies to agricultural products exported to the EU. This is one of the significant international trade documents.

Countries include Switzerland, Iceland, Norway, and others.

 

FORM A (Special Certificate of Origin)

The FORM A Certificate shows the preferential origin of goods and is used to benefit from concessional customs duties under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP). Countries applying GSP include Canada, Japan, and Russia. This document falls under documents used in foreign trade.

 

The Certificate of Origin

The Certificate of Origin indicates the country where goods are produced. It can be issued for all types of goods and countries. This document helps determine accurate customs duties and ensures compliance with regulations. It is widely recognized among documents of trade.

Voucher List (The Packing List)

The Packing List provides details about the contents of a shipment, including the weight, dimensions, and packaging of goods. It is essential for customs clearance and shipment tracking and is included in shipping documents used in foreign trade.

Loading Note (Instruction)

The Loading Note includes instructions for the proper loading of goods onto the transport vehicle. It ensures that shipments are handled and transported safely. This document is crucial among documents used in external trade.

 

Insurance Certificate (The Insurance Certificate)

The Insurance Certificate provides proof of coverage for goods in transit. It ensures compensation for damages or losses during shipping.

 

Transportation Document (CONSUMENT) (The Carrier's Decleration / Consignment Note)


The Consignment Note is issued by the carrier and details the transportation terms, including the sender, receiver, and type of goods being transported. It is one of the critical transport documents used in international trade.

 

Explore Comprehensive Trade Insights with TradeAtlas

TradeAtlas provides businesses with access to detailed shipment data and trade insights from around the globe, helping companies streamline their operations and make informed decisions. Whether you're an exporter or importer, TradeAtlas supports you in navigating the complexities of international trade. You can explore TradeAtlas by clicking here.

For detailed information on the subject export business plan & roadmap, you can review the content “Export Business Plan and Exporter's Roadmap”.