A packing list (also called a packing slip) is a document that accompanies a shipment and itemizes every product included in the package. It lists quantities, descriptions, weights, and dimensions for each item, enabling recipients, customs authorities, and carriers to verify that shipment contents match what was ordered or declared.
Packing List vs. Commercial Invoice
These two documents are often confused. A commercial invoice states the monetary value of goods for payment and customs purposes. A packing list describes what is physically in the box — quantities, part numbers, weights — but typically does not include pricing. For international shipments, both documents are required.
What a Packing List Includes
- Shipper and consignee name and address
- Shipment date and purchase order or order number
- Itemized list of products: SKU, description, quantity, unit weight
- Total package weight and dimensions
- Number of cartons or pallets in the shipment
- Country of origin (for international shipments)
Importance for International Shipping
Customs brokers and import authorities use the packing list to verify that declared contents match physical contents. Discrepancies between the packing list and the commercial invoice or the actual shipment can trigger inspections, delays, and fines. A well-prepared packing list is one of the simplest ways to avoid customs clearance issues.
Packing Lists and Freight Auditing
For high-volume shippers, packing list data feeds into freight audit processes. Declared weights and dimensions on the packing list should match carrier-billed weights. When carriers apply a shipping charge correction for weight or dimension discrepancies, comparing the original packing list to the carrier’s billed specs is the first step in disputing the adjustment.