Packing List
A shipper-generated document that itemises the contents, quantities, and packaging details of a shipment.
Full Definition
A packing list accompanies a shipment and provides detailed information about the goods packed, including item descriptions, quantities per carton, gross and net weights, and dimensions. Unlike the commercial invoice, it does not state monetary values, and unlike the bill of lading, it is not a contract of carriage. Editors should note that 'packing list' is two words and should not be hyphenated or written as 'packlist'. It is a distinct document from the manifest (the carrier's document) and the commercial invoice (which states price).
Usage
Usage note: Two words, no hyphen. Not interchangeable with 'manifest' or 'commercial invoice'. Flag any version that includes monetary values, as that blurs the boundary with the commercial invoice.
In Context
- "The warehouse team cross-referenced the packing list with the purchase order before sealing the container." — Outbound warehouse operations
- "A packing list does not show unit prices; editors should flag if pricing has been included in error." — Export documentation review