UPS, FedEx and DHL: why a commercial invoice cannot describe goods only as “sample”, “parts” or “see attached”

Answer three questions for every item

State what the item is, its main material and intended use. Do not call an item simply “parts” or “sample”; describe the actual part or sample. Genuine brands, models or part numbers can help where applicable but do not replace the basic description.

Broad labels do not replace line-item detail

FedEx public documentation identifies “parts”, “samples”, “not for resale” and “see attached” as unacceptable stand-alone descriptions. They may be supplementary where true, but cannot replace the goods description. Separate different commodities by description, quantity, value and manufacture country.

Keep invoice, waybill and packing evidence aligned

Descriptions, quantities, values and party details must truthfully align across the invoice, air waybill, packing list and support documents. Do not under-declare, enter zero value, describe chemical materials or cosmetics as general cargo, or guess an HS code.

Reviewed cargo needs more evidence

Powders, cosmetics, pastes and chemical materials can require composition, use, packaging form and SDS/MSDS evidence consistent with the invoice description. Documents support review but do not guarantee carriage, clearance, duties, price or timing.

Importer and duty arrangement still matter

The genuine importer, destination, postcode, applicable tax ID/VAT/EORI, Incoterms and duty-payer arrangement can affect review. “Tax included”, “gift” or “no commercial value” cannot replace truthful description, supportable value and import information.

FAQ