Freight forwarders may also prepare a bill of lading and any special required documentation. After shipment, they can forward all documents directly to the customer or to the paying bank. In preparing your goods for international transport, you must first determine what mode of transport you will use. When shipping to Mexico and Canada, land transportation may be the preferred method of transport. Other forms of international shipments are sea and air.
Maritime shipping is almost always slower and less expensive than air.
However, an exporter must factor in the additional costs of sea freight, such as surface transportation to the dock. Your international freight forwarder can assist in weighing the pros and cons of different modes of transportation. Once you have decided on the best mode of transporting your goods, you must begin to compile the necessary documents. After the pro-forma invoice is accepted, the exporter must prepare a commercial invoice. The commercial invoice is necessary for both the exporter and importer.