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The short version
- A packing list is a document that shows how a shipment is packed: what is in each carton, how many cartons there are, and their weights, dimensions and marks.
- The seller or factory issues it with the commercial invoice. Forwarders use it to book space, and customs can use it to check the cargo.
- It shows no prices in most cases, and it does not replace the commercial invoice.
- Quantities and weights must match the commercial invoice and the bill of lading.
What is a packing list?
A packing list is a shipping document that details the contents, quantity, weight, dimensions and markings of every package in a shipment. Where the commercial invoice says what was sold and for how much, the packing list says how it was packed. In Chinese it is called 装箱单 (zhuāngxiāngdān), and suppliers often write “PL”.
The International Trade Administration describes it as a conforming document that is not a substitute for a commercial invoice. US customs rules also require the invoice to state what is in each package, which is why the two documents travel together.
What does a packing list contain?
- Seller, buyer and consignee, with the invoice number it belongs to.
- Carton numbers (for example 1 to 40) and the shipping marks printed on the cartons.
- Contents of each carton: product, model or SKU, color or size, and units per carton.
- Net and gross weight per carton and in total.
- Carton dimensions and total volume (CBM), which drive the freight price.
- Package type: cartons, pallets or crates.
Who issues the packing list, and who uses it?
The seller or factory prepares it when the goods are packed, because only they know what went into each carton. Then several parties use it:
- Your freight forwarder, to book space and quote freight from the weight and volume. See what is a freight forwarder.
- Customs, to find a specific carton if they examine the shipment.
- Your warehouse or 3PL, to check the delivery and receive stock carton by carton.
- You, to confirm the factory packed what you ordered before you pay the balance.
When do you need a packing list?
Ask for one on every sea or air freight shipment, and on any shipment with more than one carton. For a single courier parcel, the commercial invoice often covers it. Ask the supplier to send the draft packing list before the goods leave the factory: it is the easiest moment to catch a wrong count.
What is the difference between a packing list and a commercial invoice?
| Packing list | Commercial invoice | |
|---|---|---|
| Answers | How is it packed? | What was sold, and for how much? |
| Prices | Usually none | Unit prices and totals |
| Weights and dimensions | Per carton | Total, if shown |
| Main users | Forwarder, warehouse, customs examination | Customs, broker, accounting |
Read more in what is a commercial invoice.
What does a packing list look like?
Illustrative example only: the products, carton counts and weights are made up to show the layout.
| Cartons | Contents | Units per carton | Net kg per carton | Gross kg per carton | Carton size (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1-20 | Water bottle, 500 ml, black | 50 | 15.0 | 16.2 | 60 x 40 x 35 |
| 21-40 | Water bottle, 500 ml, white | 50 | 15.0 | 16.2 | 60 x 40 x 35 |
| Total: 40 cartons | 2,000 units | 600.0 | 648.0 | 3.36 CBM |
Illustrative example. Shipping marks: buyer name, PO number, carton number of 40, “Made in China”.
What are common packing list mistakes?
- Totals that do not match the invoiceIf the invoice says 2,000 units and the packing list adds up to 1,950, expect questions from customs and your warehouse.
- Mixed cartons without detailA carton with several SKUs needs each one listed, or nobody can find a product during an exam or at receiving.
- Estimated weightsWeights copied from the quote instead of measured at packing change the freight bill later.
- Marks that differ from the cartonsThe shipping marks on the document should match what is printed on the boxes.
Check the packing list against your order and the MOQ you agreed before paying the balance. A short shipment is easier to fix while the goods are still at the factory.
Know your real cost per unit
Use the weights and volume from the packing list in our free landed cost calculator to see freight and duty per unit.
Frequently asked questions
What is a packing list in shipping?
It is a document listing every package in a shipment with its contents, quantity, weight, dimensions and marks, so forwarders, customs and warehouses can identify each carton.
Does a packing list show prices?
Usually not. Prices go on the commercial invoice. Some suppliers combine both into one document, which is fine as long as all the required information is there.
Who prepares the packing list?
The seller or factory prepares it when the goods are packed.
Is a packing list required by customs?
It depends on the country and the shipment. US rules require the invoice to state what is in each package, and a packing list is the usual way to show it. Your broker will tell you what your shipment needs.
What is the difference between gross and net weight?
Net weight is the goods alone. Gross weight includes the packaging and carton. Freight is priced on gross weight or volume.
This guide is general information, not legal or customs advice. Requirements differ by country: confirm them with your forwarder or customs broker. SuanSupply is not affiliated with CBP, the CBSA or any supplier.