Documents are proof, not paperwork
Each export document exists to prove something specific. Knowing what each one confirms lets you spot a supplier who is improvising versus one who genuinely exports.
The core set
Certificate of incorporation / commercial register — proves the company legally exists.
Export license — proves they're permitted to ship the product abroad.
Commercial invoice & packing list — the contract detail: goods, quantity, value, terms.
Bill of Lading — proves goods were handed to the carrier; your key title document.
Certificate of Origin — confirms where the goods were produced (and can affect duty).
Phytosanitary / quality certificates — required for agricultural products into most markets.
How to use the list
Ask for samples of these documents from a past shipment early in the conversation. A real exporter produces them without friction. Hesitation, excuses or 'we'll send it after the deposit' is a red flag worth acting on.
Put this into practice
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