How do I prepare shipping documents for an import shipment?

To prepare shipping documents for an import shipment, you may need several shipping and customs documents, including an air waybill, commercial invoice, and any permits required by the destination country or territory.

Before shipping, verify that your goods are permitted for import by reviewing the customs regulations of the destination country or territory. 

Common import documentation includes:

•  Air Waybill (AWB): The shipping document/shipping label used to transport the shipment.
• Commercial Invoice: Provides details about the goods, value, and transaction.
• Certificate of Origin: Confirms where the goods were manufactured or produced.
• Import License: Required for certain regulated products in some countries or territories.
• Importer Registration Number (Importer of Record): Identifies the party responsible for import compliance and customs clearance.

Depending on the destination country or territory and the shipment details, applicable duties, taxes, and customs clearance fees may apply.

For more information on import requirements and customs procedures, visit Import rules & Regulations.

Create Shipping Documents Online

Using FedEx Ship Manager®, you can sign in with your fedex.com User ID to create key shipping documents, including:

• Air Waybills (AWB)
• Commercial invoices

You can also refer to the Collaborative Shipping User Guide to learn how the Collaborative Shipping feature in FedEx Ship Manager® can help you manage import shipments across multiple countries or territories.

If you already have an air waybill and need to create a commercial invoice or other supported shipping documents, use the FedEx Document Preparation Center in Global Trade Manager.