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shipper’s letter of instruction sample

• jean
• April 27, 2024

Shippers Letter of Instruction (SLI)

Use this free sample of a shippers letter of instruction template to create a detailed, accurate document for import export and send it electronically in IncoDocs. SHIPPERS LETTER OF INSTRUCTION. Shipper. Pages. 1 of 1. Reference. Buyer Reference. Export Declaration. Number. Consignee. Notify Party (If not Consignee).1 page The Shippers Letter of Instruction (SLI) can be used to provide Expeditors with all required data elements for transmission of the. Electronic Export …3 pages Print Form 1a. EXPORTER Name and address including ZIP CODE SHIPPER S LETTER OF INSTRUCTIONS b. EXPORTER S EIN IRS NO. c PARTIES TO TRANSACTION Related Unrelated 4a ULTIMATE CONSIGNEE 3. BILL OF LADING/ AIR WAYBILL NO. 2. DATE OF EXPORT SHIPPER S REFERENCE b.

What is a Shippers Letter of Instruction (SLI)?

A Shippers Letter of Instruction (SLI) is a document that is used in the shipping industry to provide instructions to a freight forwarder and/or carrier regarding the preparation and shipment of goods. It contains details such as description of goods, quantity, packaging, pick-up and delivery addresses, loading and unloading instructions, and so on. The purpose of an SLI is to ensure that the shipment is handled according to the shippers instructions and specifications.

A Shippers Letter of Instruction (SLI) is a letter from the exporter instructing the freight forwarder on how and where to handle the export shipment. The exporter is granting permission to the forwarder to act as the authorized forwarding agent for U.S. export control and customs. An SLI template is also available.

A Shippers Letter of Instruction (SLI) is an essential legal document/contract created between the shipper and the freight forwarder (or 3rd party) that is organizing the export of a shipment. It is a detailed document used in International trade that provides logistics instructions relating…

Exporters use a Shippers Letter of Instruction (SLI) to provide shipping instructions to their freight forwarders. Its a letter that tells your agent/forwarder how and where they need to send your products. It may also include the information they need to file your EEI through AESDirect.

The Shippers Letter of Instruction (SLI) is one document that some exporters are reluctant to prepare. They shouldnt be. An SLI provides a written record of who received the shipping forms, who to contact for questions, who to contact for proof of export, and who verified export compliance.

A Shippers Letter of Instruction (SLI) is a document filed by the exporter of a shipment that clearly indicates all relevant shipping information, which freight forwarding agent it has appointed and how the shipment is to be handled. The United States mandates an SLI submission to the U.S.

A Shippers Letter of Instruction (SLI) is a shipping document, generated by the exporter, that provides transportation and documentation instructions for a freight forwarder.

Purpose of an SLI

The primary purpose of a Shippers Letter of Instruction (SLI) is to provide clear and comprehensive instructions to the freight forwarder or carrier regarding the handling and shipment of goods. It acts as a crucial communication tool between the exporter and the party responsible for moving the goods, ensuring that the shipment is managed according to the exporter’s specific requirements and specifications.

An SLI serves as a formal document that outlines the exporter’s intentions for the shipment, including details about the goods themselves, their packaging, the intended destination, and any specific handling instructions. It helps avoid potential misunderstandings and ensures that the freight forwarder or carrier has all the necessary information to process the shipment efficiently and accurately.

Moreover, the SLI plays a vital role in facilitating compliance with export regulations. It provides a written record of the exporter’s instructions and confirms the designated forwarding agent for U.S. export control and customs purposes; This documentation is essential for demonstrating compliance with export requirements and helps streamline the export process by providing a clear chain of responsibility.

In essence, the SLI serves as a critical document that ensures the smooth and efficient movement of goods while maintaining compliance with relevant regulations. It acts as a bridge between the exporter and the freight forwarder, providing a clear roadmap for the successful handling and delivery of the shipment.

Key Elements of an SLI

A Shippers Letter of Instruction (SLI) is a comprehensive document that includes essential information for the efficient and compliant handling of an export shipment. Key elements typically found in an SLI include⁚

• Shipper Information⁚ This section identifies the exporter, providing their full name, address, and contact details. It also includes the exporter’s U.S. Principal Party in Interest (USPPI) number, which is crucial for export control purposes.
• Consignee Information⁚ This section details the ultimate recipient of the goods, providing their name, address, and contact information.
• Goods Description⁚ A thorough description of the goods being shipped is crucial. This includes the type of goods, their quantity, weight, and any specific packaging details. Harmonized System (HS) codes may also be included to facilitate customs clearance.
• Shipping Instructions⁚ This section outlines the desired mode of transportation, whether it be air, sea, or road. It may also include specific instructions regarding loading and unloading procedures, as well as any special handling requirements for the goods;
• Export Declaration Number⁚ The SLI should include the export declaration number assigned to the shipment. This is a unique identifier that allows customs authorities to track the shipment’s movement.
• Forwarding Agent Designation⁚ The SLI clearly identifies the freight forwarder or carrier appointed by the exporter to handle the shipment. This designation authorizes the forwarder to act as the exporter’s agent for export control and customs purposes.
• Incoterms⁚ The SLI may specify the Incoterms (International Commercial Terms) applicable to the shipment. This clarifies the responsibilities of the exporter and the buyer regarding the costs and risks associated with the shipment.
• Special Instructions⁚ This section allows the exporter to include any additional instructions or requirements specific to the shipment, such as insurance details, payment terms, or specific documentation requirements.

These essential elements ensure clarity and accuracy in the shipment process, enabling the freight forwarder or carrier to handle the goods efficiently and comply with all relevant export regulations.

Who Uses an SLI?

The Shippers Letter of Instruction (SLI) is a crucial document in international trade, playing a vital role in facilitating the smooth movement of goods across borders. While primarily used by exporters, the SLI involves multiple parties in the shipping process, each with their own specific responsibilities. Here’s a breakdown of who utilizes the SLI and their roles⁚

• Exporters⁚ The exporter is the primary user of the SLI. They create and submit the document to their designated freight forwarder, providing detailed instructions on how to handle the shipment and ensure compliance with export regulations. The SLI serves as a legal contract between the exporter and the forwarder, outlining the agreed-upon terms and responsibilities.
• Freight Forwarders⁚ Freight forwarders are logistics professionals who act as intermediaries between exporters and carriers. They receive the SLI from the exporter, providing them with all the necessary information to handle the shipment efficiently and comply with export requirements; This includes preparing export documents, arranging transportation, and ensuring customs clearance.
• Carriers⁚ Carriers are responsible for the physical movement of goods from the point of origin to the destination. They receive instructions from the freight forwarder, based on the information provided in the SLI, to ensure the safe and timely delivery of the shipment.
• Customs Authorities⁚ While not directly involved in creating the SLI, customs authorities rely on the information contained within it to verify the legitimacy of the shipment and ensure compliance with import and export regulations. The SLI provides them with essential details about the goods, the exporter, the consignee, and the mode of transportation, enabling them to facilitate customs clearance efficiently.

The SLI serves as a central communication tool, ensuring all parties involved in the shipping process are on the same page and have access to the necessary information for a successful and compliant export transaction.

Benefits of Using an SLI

The Shippers Letter of Instruction (SLI) is not just a formality; it offers a multitude of benefits for all parties involved in the export process. Here are some key advantages of using an SLI⁚

• Clear Communication⁚ The SLI acts as a comprehensive guide for all parties involved, ensuring clear communication and reducing the risk of misunderstandings regarding the shipment’s handling, documentation, and compliance requirements. This fosters a more efficient and streamlined shipping process.
• Reduced Risk of Errors⁚ By outlining all the necessary details in a single document, the SLI minimizes the potential for errors in documentation, transportation, and customs clearance. This reduces delays, additional costs, and potential penalties associated with non-compliance.
• Enhanced Compliance⁚ The SLI helps exporters demonstrate their commitment to complying with export regulations and ensures that all necessary information is readily available to customs authorities, facilitating a smooth and efficient customs clearance process.
• Improved Accountability⁚ The SLI provides a written record of the agreed-upon terms and responsibilities between the exporter and the freight forwarder, promoting transparency and accountability throughout the shipping process. This minimizes disputes and ensures that everyone involved adheres to the agreed-upon instructions.
• Streamlined Operations⁚ By providing a clear and concise overview of the shipment, the SLI allows freight forwarders and carriers to handle the shipment more efficiently, reducing processing time, minimizing delays, and ensuring timely delivery of goods.

The SLI is a valuable tool for exporters and other stakeholders, offering numerous benefits that contribute to a more efficient, compliant, and successful export experience.

SLI Template and Sample

To assist exporters in creating their Shippers Letter of Instruction (SLI), various templates and samples are available online. These resources provide a structured framework and essential elements to ensure a comprehensive and accurate SLI.

A standard SLI template typically includes sections for⁚

• Shipper Information⁚ Name, address, contact details, and relevant identification numbers.
• Consignee Information⁚ Name, address, and contact details of the recipient of the goods.
• Goods Description⁚ Detailed description of the goods being shipped, including quantity, packaging, and any specific requirements.
• Shipping Instructions⁚ Instructions regarding the mode of transport, routing, and any special handling requirements.
• Documentation⁚ Details about the necessary export documents, including the Shippers Export Declaration (SED) and any other relevant documents.
• Freight Forwarder Information⁚ Name, address, and contact details of the appointed freight forwarder.
• Export Control and Compliance⁚ Information related to export control regulations and compliance, including the Export Control Classification Number (ECCN) and any licensing requirements.
• Other Instructions⁚ Any additional instructions or special requests, such as insurance requirements or specific handling procedures.

By utilizing a SLI template, exporters can ensure that their SLI is comprehensive, accurate, and in compliance with relevant regulations.

Creating an SLI

Creating a Shippers Letter of Instruction (SLI) requires careful attention to detail and adherence to specific requirements. The process typically involves the following steps⁚

1. Gather Necessary Information⁚ Collect all relevant details about the shipment, including the goods being shipped, the consignee, the intended destination, and any special handling requirements.
2. Select an SLI Template⁚ Choose a suitable SLI template that meets the specific needs of the shipment and aligns with relevant regulations. Many templates are available online, including standard, SED format, and NCBFAA format.
3. Complete the SLI Template⁚ Fill out the template accurately and comprehensively, providing all the required information in the designated sections.
4. Review and Verify⁚ Double-check the completed SLI for accuracy and completeness. Ensure that all details are correct and that the document reflects the intended instructions for the shipment.
5. Sign and Date⁚ Sign the SLI to authenticate its content and indicate your authorization. Include the date of creation.
6. Submit to the Freight Forwarder⁚ Send the completed and signed SLI to the designated freight forwarder, ensuring it reaches them in a timely manner.

By following these steps, exporters can create a comprehensive and compliant SLI that facilitates a smooth and efficient shipping process.

SLI for Export Declaration

The Shippers Letter of Instruction (SLI) plays a crucial role in export declaration. It acts as a communication tool between the exporter and the freight forwarder, providing essential information needed to accurately file the necessary export documents. The SLI typically includes details related to the export declaration, such as⁚

• Exporter Information⁚ Name, address, and contact details of the exporter.
• Ultimate Consignee⁚ Name and address of the final recipient of the goods.
• Export Declaration Number⁚ The unique identifier assigned to the export declaration.
• Export Control Classification Number (ECCN)⁚ If applicable, the ECCN assigned to the goods based on export regulations.
• Shipping Instructions⁚ Specific instructions on how and where to handle the shipment, including transportation mode, loading and unloading requirements, and any special considerations.

By providing this information, the SLI ensures that the freight forwarder has the necessary data to accurately complete the export declaration, minimizing errors and delays in the export process.