China Export Customs Documents: Complete Checklist
Commercial invoice, packing list, declaration, contract, licenses and more: a printable checklist for China exports.
Missing export documents is a common cause of delays and inspections. Here is a practical checklist for China export customs.
Core documents
- Commercial invoice
- Packing list
- Sales contract or purchase order
- Export declaration (filed by the broker)
Additional documents by cargo and destination
- Certificate of origin (CO/Form A, etc.)
- Inspection certificate, license or CCC certification
- MSDS and dangerous goods packaging certificate
- Brand authorization or IP documents
Checklist notes
Description, HS code, quantity, value and weight must match across documents. Declaration elements should be complete, and VAT invoices and declarations should be retained for tax refunds.