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The unit on the bill of lading is packages, but the units on the packing list and the CO are all CTNS...
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We have an urgent order, and the unit specified on the bill of lading is "packages", but both the packing list and the certificate of origin list "CTNS". Will this affect the customer's customs clearance? Is it still possible to make changes to the order now?
Eric ZhouYears of service：6Customer Rating：5.0
Senior Manager of Foreign Exchange & Tax RebatesStart a Chat
There is indeed a compliance risk here. During customs review，inconsistent documentation may be deemed as inaccurate declarations，which could trigger manual inspections at worst or affect the accuracy of customs statistics at best，leading to document correction or even fines. According to the "Regulations on the Filling Out of Customs Declaration Forms for Import and Export Goods"，the units of measurement should be consistent. It is recommended to immediately contact the freight forwarder to request document correction. If the ship has already departed，a situation explanation and guarantee letter will be required. At the same time，check the legal units of measurement corresponding to the HS code to ensure that all declaration elements are accurate and correct. In the future，it is recommended to establish a document review mechanism to avoid similar problems.
Victor SunYears of service：5Customer Rating：5.0
Trade Risk Control ManagerStart a Chat
In practice, such inconsistencies can indeed delay customs clearance at the port of destination. CTNS refers to specific packaging, while "packages" is a general term. The system may determine this as a discrepancy between the cargo and the shipping documents.
First step: Immediately contact the freight forwarder to see if the bill of lading can be amended. Most shipping companies allow free amendments within three days after the vessel sails.
Second step: Simultaneously notify the consignee to communicate with the port agent in advance and prepare explanatory documents. If amending the bill of lading is not possible, have the freight forwarder issue a packaging certificate stating that "packages" refer to CTNS. Note that there may be a USD 50-100 amendment fee and potential demurrage charges. It is recommended to specify the packaging unit clearly when booking a shipping slot in the future to avoid such issues at the source.
Grace WangYears of service：10Customer Rating：5.0
Senior Foreign Trade ConsultantStart a Chat
The client must be proactively communicated with—don’t wait until they discover issues before explaining them. You can send an email saying, "To ensure smooth customs clearance, let’s coordinate the details of the documents..." This turns the problem into a showcase of your professionalism. If the client is paying via L/C, be extra cautious, as banks are strict in document review and may reject payments. It’s advisable to simultaneously provide packing lists to prove that the quantities match exactly. Take this opportunity to propose, "We’ll strengthen document review in the future to ensure zero risks in customs clearance for your company," turning the crisis into a trust-building opportunity. In future contracts, it’s recommended to add a clause: "All document packaging units must be consistent," preventing commercial disputes at the source.