Packing list for air cargo shipments

Definition

A packing list supplements a commercial or pro forma invoice with logistics information. It identifies package types, marks, contents, quantities, gross and net weights and often dimensions. It does not replace the invoice, but supports checking, handling and customs examination.

Why does it matter?

An accurate packing list helps warehouses, airlines and customs identify individual crates or pallets. It also supports reconciliation of total weight, package count and dimensions against the booking and Air Waybill.

Key points

• Give every package a unique number or shipping mark.
• Clearly distinguish gross weight from net weight.
• Reconcile totals with the booking, AWB and invoice.

Practical example

A shipment contains two pallets and one wooden crate. The packing list shows contents, dimensions, weight and marks per package, followed by shipment totals.

Common mistakes

• Providing only shipment totals without package allocation
• Omitting pallets or packaging from gross weight
• Failing to issue an updated version after repacking