ATR1 Certificate Explained: What It Is and How It Works for UK-Turkey Trade
What is an ATR1 certificate? An ATR1 certificate is a movement certificate used in trade between Turkey and countries within the EU Customs Union, and, since 2021, the United Kingdom. It allows goods to move at preferential tariff rates, often 0%, by confirming that the goods are in “free circulation.” It does not prove where […]
Commercial Invoice Explained: What It Is, What to Include, and Why It Matters for UK Trade
What is a commercial invoice? A commercial invoice is the primary document in international trade. It is issued by the seller to the buyer and records what the goods are, how many were sold, what they cost, and where they came from. For customs authorities in every country, the commercial invoice is the starting point […]
EUR1 Movement Certificate Explained: What It Is and How to Get One for UK-EU Trade
What is an EUR1 certificate? An EUR1 movement certificate is an official document that proves goods originate in the UK to claiming preferential tariff treatment under the UK-EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA). When your EU customer presents a valid EUR1 to their customs authority, they can import your goods at 0% duty instead of […]
Letter of Credit Explained: How LC Payment Works in International Trade
What is a letter of credit? A letter of credit (LC) is a written guarantee issued by a bank on behalf of the buyer. It promises to pay the seller a set amount of money, provided the seller presents documents that match the LC terms exactly. The bank pays, not the buyer directly. That guarantee […]
Packing List Explained: What It Is, What to Include, and Why Customs Need It
Table of Contents What Is a Packing List? Packing List vs Commercial Invoice. What’s the Difference? Why the Packing List Matters for Customs and Freight What Goes on a Packing List Packing List and Dangerous Goods Common Packing List Mistakes Packing List Post-Brexit Packing List FAQs Key Takeaways What Is a Packing List? What is […]
Certificate of Origin Explained: What It Is, Why It Matters, and When You Need One
A certificate of origin is one of the most important documents in international trade. It is also one of the most misunderstood. Get it wrong and your shipment could face delays, unexpected duties, or rejection at the border. This article explains what a certificate of origin is, the different types used in UK trade, how […]
T1 Transit Document Explained: What It Is and When You Need One for UK-EU Shipments
What is a T1 document? A T1 document is a customs transit document used to move goods that have not cleared customs through one or more countries without paying duties at each border. The T1 guarantees to the transit country’s customs authority that import duties will be paid if the goods are not delivered to […]
Shipping Bills of Lading (BOL): A Practical Guide for People New to International Trade
If you’re new to international trade or shipping, the shipping Bill of Lading (BOL) can seem daunting. Often hailed as one of the most crucial shipping documents, it plays a vital role in the movement of goods, payment processes, and cargo release.
This practical guide demystifies the BOL, breaking down its functions, types, and the essential information you need to provide. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of how a BOL works in practice, ensuring you’re well-equipped to navigate the complexities of shipping.