---
title: How a packing list can make or break your shipment
description: Learn what a packing list should typically include, five common mistakes that may cause delays, and five best practices to keep your shipment moving.
---

[Freight Fundamentals](https://blog.coleintl.com/freight-fundamentals)

# [How a packing list can make or break your shipment](https://blog.coleintl.com/freight-fundamentals/how-a-packing-list-can-make-or-break-your-shipment)

 Written by [Cole Marketing](https://blog.coleintl.com/freight-fundamentals/author/cole-marketing) | Mar 9, 2026, 1:00:04 PM

If the packing list does not match what is shipped, the CBSA may hold the shipment, delay clearance, and, in cases of non-compliance with reporting requirements, assess AMPS penalties.

A **packing list** is a key document in the shipping process, and every detail on it matters.

When packing list details do not align with the rest of your shipping documents, your shipment may be delayed.

In this article, we break down what a packing list should typically include, five common mistakes that can cause delays, and five tips to get your packing list right.

## **What’s in a packing list?**

A packing list summarizes what’s in a shipment and how it’s packed. It supports [customs clearance](https://blog.coleintl.com/import-foundations/what-you-need-to-know-about-the-canadian-customs-clearance-process) and inspections.

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) may use the packing list to verify shipment contents, warehouses may use it when receiving goods, and carriers or insurers may require it to support claims for loss or damage during transit.

There isn’t a specific template or format, but a packing list must typically include:

If all packing details are included on the invoice, a separate packing list is not required.

Other details may be helpful, such as [HS codes](https://blog.coleintl.com/import-foundations/importing-into-canada-heres-how-to-find-your-hs-code), special handling instructions, or hazardous goods information.

## **5 common packing list mistakes**

Here are common packing list mistakes that may cause delays and, in some cases, increase your exposure to penalties under CBSA’s Administrative Monetary Penalty System ([AMPS](https://blog.coleintl.com/import-foundations/avoiding-amps-penalties-when-importing-into-canada)):

### **1) Generic descriptions**

If the CBSA cannot match the declared description to the contents because it’s too vague or generic, the [goods may be held](https://blog.coleintl.com/freight-fundamentals/4-reasons-why-shipments-are-held-at-the-border) until the shipment is clarified.

### **2) Weight discrepancies**

If the weights on the packing list do not match the [bill of lading](https://blog.coleintl.com/freight-fundamentals/what-is-a-bill-of-lading) or [commercial invoice](https://blog.coleintl.com/freight-fundamentals/the-role-of-the-commercial-invoice-in-shipping), the shipment may be flagged for review.

### **3) Mismatches with the invoice**

If descriptions or quantities do not match the commercial invoice, the CBSA may question the declared [value](https://blog.coleintl.com/import-foundations/how-to-calculate-value-for-duty-for-canadian-imports) or classification details, and clearance may be delayed until you confirm the correct shipment details.

### **4) Unclear package details**

If you don’t show the details of how items are distributed across cartons or pallets, receiving a shipment may be difficult, and disputes over shortages or damage become harder to resolve.

### **5) Incorrect or inconsistent units**

If you mix units, such as boxes and pieces, or kilograms and pounds, this can create confusion and raise questions about the accuracy of the quantities.

## **5 tips to get your packing list right**

Your packing list should be clear enough for everyone to understand and use. Here are five best practices to consider:

### **1) Use clear, specific descriptions**

Write descriptions that anyone handling the shipment can understand. Use the same wording as on the commercial invoice and add details as needed.

### **2) Align details on all documents**

Before the shipment moves, cross-check your:

- - **Commercial invoice** (what was sold)
    - **Packing list** (what was packed)
    - **Bill of lading** (what the carrier received)

Make sure the details align across all three documents.

### **3) Make the packing easy to confirm**

If there are multiple cartons or pallets, number them (for example, 1 of 10) and explain what is in each. This simplifies receiving and makes shortages or damage easier to confirm.

### **4) Keep units and totals clear**

Use the same units across all documents. Do not mix pieces and boxes without explaining the pack count. Do not switch between kilograms and pounds. And make sure totals add up.

### **5) Flag shipments that need more detail**

If the shipment is mixed, high-value, or likely to be examined, your freight forwarder or customs broker may need additional details in advance.

## **How we can help**

At Cole International, we offer [freight forwarding](https://www.coleintl.com/services/freight-forwarding) services to help Canadian businesses plan and document their shipments to reduce surprises and delays at the border.

Our team can work with you to:

***We don’t believe in guesswork. We get it right the first time.***

**Reach out to one of [our trade professionals](https://www.coleintl.com/contact-us) to review your packing list and ensure it is consistent with your other shipping documents.**

[View full post](https://blog.coleintl.com/freight-fundamentals/how-a-packing-list-can-make-or-break-your-shipment)

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