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Introduction to International Trade Documentation – Part 3

The Commercial Invoice The commercial invoice is the key transaction or accounting document. It identifies the seller and buyer, gives identifying numbers such as invoice number, date and shipping date, identifies the mode of transport, delivery and payment terms, and gives a complete list and description of the goods or services being sold including quantities, prices, and discount. The Bill of Lading The bill of lading is the key of transportation document. It is issue by a carrier such as shipping line or airline to a shipper (the exporter or seller), signed by the captain, agent, or owner of a vessel and furnishes written evidence of the receipt of the goods (cargo), the conditions on which transportation is made (contract of carriage), and the engagement to deliver goods at the prescribed port of destination to the lawful holder of the bill of lading. A bill of lading is, therefore, both a receipt for merchandise and a contract to deliver it as freight. It can also serve