6 Essential Documentation for International Shipping in UAE

The United Arab Emirates today plays an important role in the world in logistics and international trade. This is because it is a hub for international trade involving Asia, Europe, and Africa. It is observed that the Dubai International Airport alone witnessed the transportation of more than 2.10 million tons in 2023. 

It is significant for you to have enough knowledge about the complex procedures and regulations involved in international shipping to navigate the process with ease. Hence, we have compiled for you a list of the six most important documents for international shipping in the UAE. 

What are freight documents? 

All the essential commercial and legal documentation required for domestic and international shipment of goods are together called freight documents. These documents are of immense importance in the logistics process. This is because these documents provide the correct identification and tracking of the goods throughout the process of shipment.  

Essential documentation for international shipping in UAE

The following are some of the essential documents required for import and export in the UAE: 

1. Certificate of Origin:

A certificate of origin is one of the most important documentation for international shipping in UAE as it certifies that the goods being shipped have their origin in a particular country. Certificates of origin are of two types: non-preferential and preferential. These certificates are verified by customs authorities to decide the eligibility of goods for applicable free trade agreement rates. 

The documentation for international shipping in UAE also decides whether the shipment complies with the trade policies and import laws of the countries of import or export. This certificate is especially needed for customs clearance in Dubai if the importer needs preferential duty treatment for the goods under the free trade agreement (FTA).

2. Commercial invoice: 

One of the documents required for import and export in the UAE that describes each item in the shipment with its value is called a commercial invoice. This documentation for international shipping in the UAE also mentions the unit price and quantity of each item. 

Businesses use this document while selling their services and products to other businesses. Commercial invoices also state the due date of the payment and other terms of payment.  

3. Bill of lading:

The bill of lading is one of the main documents required for import and export in UAE during the customs clearance. This documentation acts as evidence of the agreement between the carrier and the shipper. Hence, it is necessary to pay attention to the accuracy of the information in it. 

This documentation for international shipping in the UAE outlines the conditions and terms of the shipping agreement. As a document of title bill of lading gives the shipper the right to possess goods at the destination. It is also documentation for international shipping in UAE that acts as a receipt for the shipped goods.  

4. Import or Export license:

Another documentation for international shipping in UAE that is necessary for customs clearance is a valid import/export license. These documents are prerequisites for the shipment of restricted and controlled items like pharmaceuticals, military equipment, agricultural products, and dual-use items. Hence the failure to provide these licenses could result in the seizure and delay of the goods. 

These documents required for import and export in UAE certify a company to pursue trade activities. They can apply for the necessary licenses at the trade regulatory authorities of a country by stating clearly the intended use and other necessary details of the goods.  

5. Insurance certificate: 

One of the documents required for import and export in UAE that proves insurance coverage of a shipment is the insurance certificate. This document protects your shipment against theft, loss, or damage during transportation and empowers the shipper or consignee to claim compensation during such incidents. The three main types of insurance certificates include: 

• free-of-charge average insurance
• average insurance coverage
• all-risk insurance coverage

5. Letter of instruction from the shipper: 

A letter of instruction is documentation for international shipping in UAE that a shipper provides to a carrier or a freight forwarder. This document instructs how to handle, ship, and deliver the goods. Other details that are included in the letter are: 

• Information about the consignee and shipper
• List of goods and their descriptions
• Contact information
• Special requirements about hazardous materials, temperature control, and more

The other important documentation for international shipping in UAE includes airway bills, customs declaration forms, importer-exporter codes, packing lists, and dangerous goods certificates. 

Conclusion: 

Proper documentation is the lynchpin of international shipping of goods to the UAE. These documents verify that you comply with trade laws. Further, they streamline the cross-border movement of goods and avoid legal complications, financial losses, or delays with the shipment. Hence, it is advisable to seek the service of a good logistic and shipping service provider like Ryan Worldwide to ease the fuss of paperwork and streamline the shipment process.  

Frequently Asked Questions: 

1. Who should ensure the accuracy of the documents required for import and export in UAE? 

The shipment’s sender should ensure the accuracy of the documents required for import and export in UAE. 

2. What are the consequences of incomplete and inaccurate documentation for international shipping in UAE? 

The following are the consequences of incomplete and inaccurate documentation for international shipping in UAE: 

• Delayed shipping
• Damaged goods 
• Fines imposed by customs authorities

3. What are the documents required for export from the UAE?

The following documents are required for export from the UAE: 

• Delivery order.
• Original copy of Invoice 
• Original and attested copy of certificate of origin
• Bill of lading
• Packing list.
• Cash or cheque deposit of 5%
• Customs Exit/Entry Certificate.
• Inspection report.