The Purpose of Packing Notes
The simple definition of a packing note is a list identifying the description and quantities of goods or merchandise that have been delivered to a customer. It is an important document in the import / export trade.
Packing Note Identification Marks
All cartons should carry a clearly displayed unique reference identification code or number.
This is recorded in the packing note accompanied by a brief description of the contents. Its purpose is to both facilitate the consignee's goods inwards procedures and to act as a guide for customs inspection.
For customers such as supermarkets the carton's reference code may also have to be supplemented by a bar code, the exact location of which will have been specified with the order.
Packing Notes and Customs Clearance
Care should be taken to ensure that each carton's ID and description of contents agree exactly with the packing note.
Differences can result in added costs for the customer if merchandise is subsequently wrongly located in the warehouse. Packing note errors can also result in considerable delays for customs clearance.