The financing, movement and control of goods in international trade is generally implemented by the completion and transfer of certain documents. So in order to ensure that your goods arrive on time and that you receive prompt payment for your consignment, you must make sure that you have the correct documents and that they are accurately completed. Documentation requirements vary from product to product and from country to country . General export documents include the following.
Single Administrative Document (SAD)
The SAD is required for trade between Ireland and non-EU countries and in certain other circumstances. It is usually processed by the freight forwarder on behalf of the exporter. Detailed instructions on completing SAD documents can be viewed at the Revenue Commissioner's website
Invoices
1. Pro-Forma Invoice
This is issued by the exporter to a customer giving details (knowledge) of the consignment. It is usually required to get the import licence or to raise a letter of credit. It should contain all the information shown in the Commercial Invoice but it is not a demand for payment. Pro-forma means sample.
2. Commercial Invoice
This is raised by the exporter and should contain full details of the consignment to facilitate customs clearance. It must be signed and dated. Freight and insurance, when included in the selling price, should be itemised separately as these charges are not subject to duty in certain countries.
3. Customs Invoice
Few countries require special customs invoices. Normally the ordinary commercial invoice duly endorsed is acceptable by customs.
4. Consular Invoice
Some countries in Central and South America require their own consular invoice. These are available from their nearest (the local) embassy at a nominal charge.
Certificate of Origin
Chambers of Commerce supply the general EU certificate of origin. It usually needs to be authenticated by the local Chamber of Commerce. The Arab Irish Certificate of Origin is required for certain markets - exporters should contact the joint Arab Irish Chamber of Commerce for details of cost and legislation procedures
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Joint Arab Irish Chamber of Commerce
Tel: 353 1 6624451/6621577
Fax: 353 1 6614729 |
Legalisation of Documents
Some countries require the certificate of origin, commercial invoice, etc to be legalised by their embassy in Ireland/UK. Legalisation fees can be very high and vary from country to country. There is generally a specified waiting period ranging from 24 to 48 hours.
Bill of Lading
This acknowledges goods received on-board ship. The condition of the goods is noted on the bill of lading, which is evidence of contract of carriage and a document of title to the goods.
Airway Bill
This is not a document of title to the goods, nor is it evidence of a contract of carriage.
Movement Certificate
A movement certificate (EUR) (ATR for Turkey) is required for exports to certain countries which have agreements with the EU and when goods qualify for preferential treatment under the agreement. Visit the Revenue Commissioner's website for further details.
Health Certificate
Some agricultural products and foodstuffs require a health certificate entering certain countries.
Certificate of Free Sale
Required for pharmaceuticals and certain chemicals entering a number of countries.
Pre-shipment Certificate
Many countries require this, e.g. a clean report of findings. This certifies quality, quantity and sometimes price for all goods exceeding a certain value. The inspection is carried out by companies appointed by the importing country .
Other Certificates
Other types of certificates may be requested for certain products, e.g. certificate of age for certain spirits, certificates of conformity, sanitary certificate and certificate of free sale etc.