One Order, Two Containers – How Many Document Sets?

Sometimes, beneficiaries get tripped up when an LC calls for documents “per order” in some cases and “per container” in others. It raises the question: if two containers are shipped under one purchase order, does that mean two complete sets of documents are required? A reader recently wrote in with this exact dilemma.

1. Commercial Invoice must be signed by the beneficiary in one invoice per order.

2. Packing List per container must be separated from invoice.

3. Certificate of Origin GSP form A per order has to be presented by the beneficiary.

4. One original FCR issued by DHL or agents acting on behalf of DHL.

The beneficiary will export 2 containers at the same time on the same vessel and intends to present us two separate sets of documents.

In our view, the beneficiary must present two separate sets of documents except Commercial Invoice and Certificate of Origin.

ANSWER

Hi H.,

From the LC terms, it is clear that:

• The invoice must be issued per order. Since the LC only refers to one order (No. 56), only one invoice is required.

• The packing list must be issued per container. With two containers, there should be two separate packing lists.

• The certificate of origin (Form A) is required per order, so one CO is sufficient.

• The FCR to be issued by DHL (or its agent) covers the shipment. As the LC does not specify “per container,” one FCR should be acceptable.

Therefore, unless the LC expressly requires otherwise, there is no need for two complete sets of documents. One set of documents reflecting Order No. 56, with two separate packing lists (one for each container), will fully comply with the credit.

Best regards,

Mr. Old Man