The product is described too broadly
Without models, characteristics or an item list, the offer, documents and shipment scope cannot be compared reliably.
Practical resources
What to clarify before a shipment.
Four checklists for conversations with your supplier and team. Gather the starting inputs, spot document inconsistencies and prepare questions about delivery.
- 01Choose your requirement
- 02Mark the information you have
- 03Copy the list for your team
Checklists for your requirement
What is already known about your shipment?
Mark the details that are already confirmed. This is not legal advice or a final project assessment; the checklist helps identify gaps before a focused discussion.
Minimum inputs for an initial review
Use this when the requirement is still taking shape and a free-form description needs to become a clear request.
Working glossary
Terms in plain language
Short definitions help the client, supplier and logistics team discuss the same project facts.
01Specification
A list of goods, quantities and characteristics describing the shipment scope.
02Invoice
A seller's commercial document stating the goods, value, currency, parties and payment terms. Its details should be checked against the contract and specification.
03Packing list
A record of packages, packing type, quantity, weight, dimensions, markings and contents.
04Incoterms rules
Rules for interpreting trade terms that allocate certain responsibilities, costs and risks between seller and buyer. They do not by themselves determine transfer of title or payment terms.
More about Incoterms® from ICC05Shipment readiness
Confirmed information about the goods, packing, documents and ability to hand the cargo to a carrier.
06Milestone
A verifiable stage of the shipment, such as readiness, carrier handover, departure, arrival or delivery.
Before pricing and planning
What to clarify before moving ahead
These conditions do not make a project impossible. They show which questions should be resolved first.
The actual loading point is unknown
A country alone is not enough: the city, warehouse or factory can materially change the route start.
Weight and dimensions are unconfirmed
A route can be outlined, but transport selection and pricing depend on packing data.
Several document versions are in circulation
An outdated specification or packing list can carry inconsistent data into the next stage.
Next step
Discuss the starting inputsStill missing some information?
Share what is already available. Missing items will show which details need clarification.