Export packing list
template & guide.
Turn carton measurements into a clear packing list. Review package counts, marks, weights and dimensions without mixing them up with product quantities or prices.
Open the document workspace ↗What this document is for
An export packing list describes how a shipment is packed. It helps the parties check physical cargo details and supports, rather than replaces, the commercial invoice.
Fields to review
- Shipment and invoice references
- Link the packing list to the shipment and corresponding commercial invoice.
- Exporter and consignee
- Identify who is shipping the cargo and who receives it.
- Product description and shipping marks
- Make the contents and package markings recognizable.
- Package type and number
- State cartons, pallets or another applicable package type, and count the actual packages.
- Net and gross weight
- Record both in kilograms. Include packaging in gross weight; do not assume net weight equals gross weight.
- Dimensions and measurement
- Measure the outside of each package type and multiply its volume by the carton count.
A worked example
| Carton size | Count | Gross / carton | Total CBM |
|---|---|---|---|
| 60 × 40 × 50 cm | 10 | 10 kg | 1.200 m³ |
| 20 × 30 × 40 cm | 5 | 2 kg | 0.120 m³ |
| Total | 15 cartons | 110 kg gross | 1.320 m³ |
Net weight is intentionally absent from this example because it was not measured. Use the free CBM calculator for mixed carton sizes and unit conversions.
How to prepare it in Tradocket
- Measure the outside of each carton size and enter the carton count in the CBM calculator. Gross weight is entered per carton.
- Choose Create a packing list to add a new shipment with those measurements. Your existing shipments remain available.
- Confirm contents, product quantities, net weights, shipping marks and consignee details, then preview and save a PDF.
The free trial works in your browser. You can edit shared shipment data, review the live preview and use your browser’s print dialog to save a PDF. Save a JSON backup before changing computers or clearing browser data.
Before you send it
Carton count and product quantity are different measurements: one carton can contain many pieces. If you use the calculator transfer, the initial quantity is expressed in cartons. Replace it with verified product details where appropriate, and check the packing list against the actual cargo.
Check destination and transaction requirements with your buyer or freight forwarder. For an official overview of document purposes, see Common Export Documents from the U.S. International Trade Administration.
Related documents and tools
Use a commercial invoice for transaction values, and the CBM calculator for volume. A calculated volume alone cannot establish whether cartons will fit inside a container.