Before you order a container of charcoal from Egypt, it helps to know which papers will come with it, because your bank and customs will ask for them. This guide covers the core documents, who issues each one and how they link to payment.
- The proforma invoice fixes product, packing, price and delivery term before loading.
- Core documents: commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading and certificate of origin.
- Any extra certificates depend on the destination country and the product.
- Confirm the required list with your customs broker before ordering.
- Usual payment: 50% in advance and 50% against documents.
Before shipping: the proforma invoice
The first document you receive is the proforma invoice. It sets out the charcoal type, packing, quantity in tonnes, price per tonne, delivery term, port of arrival and payment terms. Freight is confirmed at the time of order, as it changes with the shipping line and sailing date.
Many importers use the proforma to arrange financing or any import permits at home. For the difference between delivery terms, read our guide to Ex Works, FOB, CFR and CIF.
Core documents with every container
These are the documents that normally travel with a charcoal shipment:
| Document | What it shows | Issued by |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial invoice | Final value, quantity, price per tonne and delivery term | Exporter |
| Packing list | Number of bags or cartons, net and gross weight per container | Exporter |
| Bill of lading | Container number, ports of loading and discharge, consignee | Shipping line |
| Certificate of origin | Proof that the goods are of Egyptian origin | Competent authorities in Egypt |
Extra certificates by destination
Some countries or products may need further papers, such as a fumigation or phytosanitary certificate for wood products, or a product analysis. These rules differ by country and change over time, so we do not decide them on your behalf.
Our advice: ask your customs broker for the full list before you confirm the order, and send it to us so we can arrange what is available with the shipment.
Documents and payment
Our usual terms are 50% in advance on order confirmation and 50% against documents after loading: the balance is paid once you have received and checked copies of the shipping documents. Any other arrangement is agreed on the proforma. The full ordering process is in our guide to ordering charcoal from Egypt.
Ordering and documents, step by step
- Request a quotationProduct, packing, quantity and port of arrival.
- Proforma and advanceConfirm details and pay 50%.
- Production and loadingContainer prepared and freight booked.
- Documents and balanceReceive the documents and pay 50%.
- Arrival and clearanceYour broker clears the container.
Need a proforma for your container?
Send us the product, quantity and port of arrival and we will reply with a quotation.
FAQ
Who issues the certificate of origin?
It is issued by the competent authorities in Egypt and proves the goods are of Egyptian origin.
Will my company appear on the bill of lading?
Yes, consignee details are entered according to your instructions before shipping.
Do I need other certificates?
That depends on your country and the product; check with your customs broker and tell us before ordering.
