Packing List for Imports (Simple Template)
A packing list is how warehouses, carriers, and brokers confirm what’s in the shipment. A clean packing list reduces confusion, mismatches, and “missing item” disputes.
What a packing list must include
- Shipper (exporter) + consignee (importer)
- Shipment reference (PO, invoice number, booking number if available)
- Number of packages (cartons/pallets/crates)
- Marks & numbers (carton labels)
- Net weight + gross weight
- Dimensions (optional but helpful)
- Detailed contents by package
Copy/paste packing list template
PACKING LIST Shipper (Exporter): - Name: - Address: Consignee (Importer): - Name: - Address: Reference: - Invoice #: - PO #: - Shipment/Booking # (optional): Packages Summary: - Total packages (cartons/pallets): - Marks & Numbers (how cartons are labeled): - Total net weight: - Total gross weight: - Total dimensions (optional): Package Breakdown: Carton 1: - Contents: - Quantity: - Net weight: - Gross weight: - Dimensions (optional): Carton 2: - Contents: - Quantity: - Net weight: - Gross weight: - Dimensions (optional): (Repeat as needed)
Warehouse-friendly tips
- Match carton numbers to the labels on the physical cartons
- Use consistent units (kg/lb, cm/in)
- Make quantities obvious (units per carton, cartons per pallet)
- Keep the product descriptions consistent with your invoice
Common mistakes
- Only listing “20 cartons” with no breakdown of what’s inside
- Weights missing or inconsistent
- Invoice says 500 units but packing list totals 480
- No carton marks/numbers (warehouse can’t verify quickly)
Want invoice + packing list created for you?
The Broker-Ready Trade Pack generates a single PDF bundle with: HS summary, duty snapshot, invoice draft, packing list, and compliance checklist.
Generate Trade Pack PDF