Short answer: A packing list is a document that travels with a shipment and lists what is in it. It shows items, quantities and often weights and dimensions. It is used to check the delivery, not to bill for it.
Not legal, customs or tax advice. General information only; check duties, documents and contract terms with your customs broker or adviser.
What two sources say about Packing list
| Source page | Publisher | What the page says |
|---|---|---|
| Packing list | Wikipedia | Describes a packing list as a document inside a shipment that shows the order date, products and quantities, sometimes weights. Says recipients use it as a checklist and that it differs from an invoice, which goes to the payer. |
| Packing list | Flexport glossary | Describes a packing list as a customs-related document recording quantities, weights, dimensions and carton counts, prepared by the supplier. Says carriers, brokers and warehouses use it and it must agree with the commercial invoice. |
Key points
- It shows the products and quantity of each in the shipment. [1, 2]
- It often includes weights, and may include dimensions and carton or pallet counts. [1, 2]
- The supplier usually prepares it. [2]
- Recipients use it as a checklist when unpacking and report anything missing. [1]
- Carriers, customs brokers and warehouses rely on it, and errors can cause delays. [2]
- It should be consistent with the commercial invoice. [2]
Packing list compared with Invoice
| Aspect | Packing list | Invoice | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Confirms what was delivered. | The billing document. | [1] |
| Who receives it | Travels with the shipment. | Goes to the person responsible for payment. | [1] |
| Focus | The physical make-up of the shipment. | Shared details such as unit quantities must match. | [2] |
Where sources differ
Also called packing slip or shipping list. Wikipedia describes a list inside the parcel; Flexport describes a customs document. Usage varies.
Questions to ask a supplier about Packing list
- [ ] Will a packing list travel with every shipment?
- [ ] Does it show carton counts, weights and dimensions?
- [ ] Will it match the commercial invoice quantities?
- [ ] Can I get a draft before dispatch?
- [ ] Do carton marks on the list match the marks on the boxes?
Read next on this site
- Exporting frames and boards from India: documents, packing and payment
- Packing glass and acrylic fronted frames for transport: what the sources say and where they differ
- SKU and Barcode Register Template for Frame Ranges
More terms and explainers
- Commercial invoice
- Bill of lading
- Proforma invoice
- Purchase order
- What to Put in a Packing List for an Export Shipment
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Sources: [1] Wikipedia, fetched 2026-11-12; [2] Flexport glossary, fetched 2026-11-12. As of 2026-11-12. General information, not legal, customs or tax advice. Wording is paraphrased from the pages linked; your written quote and contract govern.