Transport document completion

Export Cargo Shipping Instruction

Guide

The Export Cargo Shipping Instruction is the instruction from the exporter to the forwarder or carrier.

How is the Export Cargo Shipping Instruction used?

The Export Cargo Shipping Instruction contains the following information about your consignment:

  • the nature of the goods
  • the route to their destination
  • any transport requirements
  • customs information
  • who should receive specified documents
  • an allocation of costs

So it's very important that the information you provide on the Export Cargo Shipping Instruction is accurate.

Benefits of using an Export Cargo Shipping Instruction

When you use the Export Cargo Shipping Instruction it gives everyone involved complete, accurate and timely information about your consignment. So all parties get clear and precise details on how your goods should be handled, which can save you time and money.

Completing the Export Cargo Shipping Instruction

You're not required to use the Export Cargo Shipping Instruction . But it's good exporting practice to do so because it's a helpful checklist at the planning stage. And the Export Cargo Shipping Instruction also provides an authoritative record of your instructions on how your consignment should be handled. So if there's any disagreement over procedures, documentation or charges you can use a properly completed Export Cargo Shipping Instruction as the source for resolving the dispute.

The Export Cargo Shipping Instruction is intended as a multi-purpose document that can be used for any of the following functions:

  • movement and handling of goods
  • customs formalities, including clearance and payment of any duties and taxes
  • distribution of commercial and transport documents related to the consignment
  • allocation of freight and other operational charges
  • special instructions, for example if the goods are dangerous or if additional documents are needed

Sample Export Cargo Shipping Instruction

You can download an example Export Cargo Shipping Instruction (PDF, 383K).