Field notes
Field notes on export paperwork
What we're learning about commercial invoices, certificates of origin, HS codes, and the paperwork that actually moves a shipment through customs.
- 9 min read
What is an HS code? How to find yours
How the harmonized system works, how to classify your product correctly, and what happens when the code is wrong.
HS codescustomsexport basics - 10 min read
Incoterms 2020 explained for small exporters
FOB, CIF, EXW, DDP: what each Incoterm makes you responsible for and how to pick the right one for your shipment.
Incotermsshippingexport basics - 8 min read
How to fill out a certificate of origin, step by step
Every field on the certificate of origin explained, who can issue it, and the mistakes that get shipments held at customs.
export documentscertificate of origincustoms clearance - 8 min read
Export documents checklist: what every small exporter needs
The 9 documents that move an export shipment, which ones you actually need, and a checklist to run before every booking.
export documentsexport checklisttrade paperwork - 8 min read
Commercial invoice vs proforma invoice: the difference
When to send a proforma, when the commercial invoice takes over, and the fields customs actually checks on each.
export documentscommercial invoiceproforma invoice