What Is a Packing List?

A packing list describes how shipped goods are packed, including packages, contents, quantities, dimensions and weights.

A packing list describes how shipped goods are packed, including packages, contents, quantities, dimensions and weights. It supports receiving, freight handling and customs checks but normally does not request payment.

How Packing List works in a sourcing process

Require package-level detail when mixed products, serial numbers, lots or multiple purchase orders share a shipment.

Packing List: what the sourcing record should show
AreaWhat to record
DecisionRequire package-level detail when mixed products, serial numbers, lots or multiple purchase orders share a shipment.
EvidenceMatch package marks, carton count, net and gross weight, dimensions and quantities to the commercial invoice and bill of lading.
Watch pointA packing list can be accurate in total while hiding carton-level shortages. Receiving controls should preserve the package breakdown.

What buyers should verify

Match package marks, carton count, net and gross weight, dimensions and quantities to the commercial invoice and bill of lading.

A packing list can be accurate in total while hiding carton-level shortages. Receiving controls should preserve the package breakdown.

Related sourcing records

strategic sourcing, supplier prequalification, landed cost.