The export document set your clearing agent actually needs

Customs delays are almost never caused by the goods. They are caused by paperwork that arrives late or contradicts itself.

The core set is the commercial invoice, packing list and bill of lading, and these three must agree on net weight, gross weight, carton count and marks. Add the certificate of origin, a phytosanitary certificate for plant products, a health certificate where the destination requires one, a fumigation certificate for wooden pallets, the insurance certificate for CIF terms and laboratory analysis reports for the contracted parameters.

Ask for scanned copies the day the vessel sails and originals by courier the same week. Confirm early whether your market needs consular legalisation or a chamber of commerce attestation, because both add days rather than hours.