Most border delays are paperwork delays. Use this checklist before every cross-border truck departs.
When a truck is held at a GCC border, the cause is almost always a missing, inconsistent or incorrect document. A complete, matching set of paperwork prepared before departure is the single most effective way to keep cross-border FTL shipments moving. Use this checklist for every export from Saudi Arabia.
Core commercial documents
- Commercial invoice: seller, buyer, description, HS code, quantity, unit value, currency, Incoterms and total. Values must match the packing list and the contract.
- Packing list: number of packages, contents per package, gross and net weights, dimensions and marks.
- Certificate of origin: issued by the Chamber of Commerce. Goods of GCC origin are exempt from customs duty within the GCC when supported by a valid certificate.
Customs declarations
- Saudi export declaration filed through the FASAH platform by a licensed broker.
- Import declaration in the destination country, filed by the importer's broker with the importer's customs registration.
Transport documents
- Truck waybill / consignment note.
- Truck registration, driver licence and GCC transit permit.
- Cargo insurance certificate.
Product-specific certificates
- Food and agricultural products: health certificate and, where required, halal certificate.
- Pharmaceuticals and medical devices: SFDA export approvals and the importer's registration.
- Chemicals: material safety data sheet and dangerous goods declaration.
- Electronics and regulated products: conformity certificates (SASO / GSO).
Consistency checks before departure
Confirm that the consignee name, address and tax number match across all documents; that HS codes are correct to at least six digits; that the number of packages on the packing list equals the number loaded; and that seal numbers are recorded on the waybill.
TQM International's customs team pre-checks every cross-border shipment's documents and coordinates with brokers on both sides of the border to minimise clearance time.
