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How do I write a goods description for a shipment?

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Shipping documents

Do I need a certificate for Port Health?
Do I need a packing list?
How do I email a shipping label?
How do I write a goods description for a shipment?
What documents do I need for customs clearance?
What is a commercial invoice and how do I fill it in?
What is a safety compliance certificate?
What is an air waybill (AWB)?
What is the difference between a document and non-document (product) shipment?
When do I need an export licence?
When do I need to supply Safety Data Sheets (SDS)?
Why are accurate goods descriptions so important?

How do I write a goods description for a shipment?

When describing the goods you’re shipping try to answer these three questions:

What are the goods?
What are they made of?
What are they used for?

The description should be specific, not vague. If the package contains branded items, include the brand and model number along with the description. And don’t just rely on the company product code to describe the goods. Where possible you should also include a harmonized code (HS code) for any products in your shipment.

Here’s a good and bad example of a goods description:

VAGUE DESCRIPTION: Nuts
CLEAR DESCRIPTION: Hexagonal aluminium bicycle nut