Sea Freight Documentation Checklist for China to Bangladesh Shipments

Sea freight involves more documentation touchpoints than most importers expect on their first shipment. Knowing what’s needed — and when — helps avoid last-minute scrambling before the vessel departs.

Before the Shipment Departs

• Commercial invoice and packing list from the supplier
• Booking confirmation from the shipping line or freight forwarder
• Certificate of Origin, if applicable to your product’s duty treatment

Generated During Transit

The Bill of Lading is issued once cargo is loaded and confirmed on board — this is the key title document for sea freight and is required to release the cargo at destination.

Needed at Destination

• Original or telex-released Bill of Lading
• Import Registration Certificate (IRC) and BIN of the importer
• Any product-specific permits or certificates required for customs clearance

A missing or delayed document at any of these stages can hold up your shipment at the port. Our team handles this documentation as part of every sea freight booking we manage.