It is important to correctly classify your international letter or parcel as document or non-document to avoid penalties, additional costs or delays. Also, describe the contents as precisely as possible to avoid vague or generic descriptions.
Documents, also known as non-dutiable shipments, are letters, statements or other correspondence that have no commercial value and are not intended for resale. No commercial invoice is therefore required to accompany it. Examples of documents include visa applications, business correspondence, legal documentation or certificates.
Non-documents, also known as dutiable or product shipments, are products or goods for personal or commercial use. Multiple copies of a commercial invoice have to accompany the parcel. If your item is for personal use then you have to include multiple copies of a proforma invoice. Examples of non-documents include clothing, car parts, sports equipment or books. These commercial and proforma invoices are created for you when you ship with DHL Express. Just follow the booking instructions.
Note that Customs regulations in some countries may classify a document as a non-document based on its destination, weight and value. For example, educational materials, magazines, books or documents intended for resale are also classified as non-documents and will incur Customs duties and taxes. If you are in doubt about how to classify your parcel then speak to our Customer Service team.