Shipping goods by sea is a common and cost-friendly way to send large items around the world. If you are shipping from Dubai, you must prepare the correct documents. Without the right papers, your goods may get delayed or even returned.
At IMEX Shipping & Logistics Dubai, we help businesses and individuals with smooth sea freight services in Dubai. In this blog, we will explain the basic shipping documents you need and why they are important. Let’s keep it simple and easy.
1. Bill of Lading
This is the most important document for sea shipping.
A Bill of Lading does three things:
- It proves that the goods were received by the shipping company.
- It acts like a contract between the shipper and the carrier.
- It works as a title for the goods.
There are two types:
- Original Bill of Lading
- Telex Release (or Express Release)
At IMEX, we will help you choose the right one based on your shipment.
2. Commercial Invoice
A Commercial Invoice is a bill for your goods. It includes:
- The name and address of the buyer and seller
- A list of the goods being shipped
- The value of each item
- Total cost
- Payment terms
This paper is used by customs during customs clearance UAE to check the goods and calculate taxes.
3. Packing List
The Packing List shows all the items in the shipment. It has:
- Quantity
- Weight
- Size
- Description of goods
- Packaging type
This list helps customs and the shipping company to know what’s inside the container. It makes the checking process faster.
4. Certificate of Origin
The Certificate of Origin tells where your goods were made. It is often needed by the country receiving the shipment.
Why is this important?
- Some countries charge lower taxes if they have trade agreements with the UAE.
- It is a must for customs clearance UAE.
This paper is usually issued by the Chamber of Commerce in Dubai.
5. Export Declaration / Export License
Some goods need special permission to be shipped outside Dubai. These goods include:
- Electronics
- Chemicals
- Special machines
In this case, you need an Export License. Also, you may have to submit an Export Declaration. This is a legal step in the export paperwork process.
At IMEX, we help you handle this step easily.
6. Insurance Certificate
Goods can sometimes get lost or damaged while shipping. That’s why we recommend getting cargo insurance.
An Insurance Certificate proves that your goods are covered. It helps in case something goes wrong during sea freight. It’s always better to stay safe!
7. Customs Documents (UAE)
Before your goods leave Dubai, they must clear customs. For customs clearance UAE, you need:
- A trade license (if you are a business)
- Customs registration number
- Your VAT certificate (if you have one)
These documents help the customs team know that everything is legal.
We at IMEX Shipping & Logistics Dubai take care of all the customs steps for you.
Why Choose IMEX Shipping & Logistics Dubai?
We know that sea shipping and paperwork can be confusing. That’s why we make it simple for you. IMEX offers:
- Easy sea freight services in Dubai
- Full support with shipping documents
- Fast customs clearance UAE
- Help with the bill of lading and all export paperwork
- Friendly customer service
We make sure your shipment goes smoothly — from pickup to delivery.
Conclusion
To ship goods by sea from Dubai, you need the right documents. Without these papers, your shipment may face delays or extra costs. Always prepare your documents in advance.
The main documents you need are:
- Bill of Lading
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Certificate of Origin
- Export License (if needed)
- Insurance Certificate
- Customs Documents
At IMEX Shipping & Logistics Dubai, we take care of it all for you. If you're looking for easy, stress-free sea freight services in Dubai, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Contact us today.
