Shipping Documents

Certificate of Origin (C/O) – Purpose & Key Fields

Document certifying the country where goods were manufactured or produced.

Document
Certificate of Origin
Abbreviation
C/O
Transport modes
Sea, Air, Road, Rail, Multimodal
Issued by
Chambers of Commerce, Government trade agencies, Exporters (for certain types)

The Certificate of Origin (C/O) certifies the country where goods were manufactured, produced, or processed. It is essential for customs clearance as it determines applicable tariff rates, preferential duty treatment under trade agreements, and compliance with trade restrictions. There are non-preferential C/Os (stating origin) and preferential C/Os (for reduced duties under FTAs like EUR.1, USMCA, Form A for GSP).

Purpose of the Certificate of Origin

  • Certifies country of manufacture
  • Determines applicable duty rates
  • Qualifies for preferential tariff treatment
  • Required for certain trade agreements
  • Compliance with trade restrictions

Who issues the Certificate of Origin

  • Chambers of Commerce
  • Government trade agencies
  • Exporters (for certain types)

When the Certificate of Origin is required

  • Customs clearance
  • Preferential duty claims
  • Trade agreement compliance
  • LC requirements

Key fields on the Certificate of Origin

  • Exporter Details (required): Party exporting goods
  • Consignee (required): Party receiving goods
  • Description of Goods (required): Product details
  • Country of Origin (required): Where goods were made
  • HS Code (required): Tariff classification
  • Certifying Authority (required): Issuing organization stamp

Tips for the Certificate of Origin

  • Check if preferential C/O is available for your trade lane
  • Ensure origin criteria are met for preferential treatment
  • Get C/O certified by authorized body

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Frequently asked questions

What is a Certificate of Origin?

Document certifying the country where goods were manufactured or produced.

What is the purpose of the Certificate of Origin?

Certifies country of manufacture. Determines applicable duty rates. Qualifies for preferential tariff treatment. Required for certain trade agreements. Compliance with trade restrictions

Who issues the Certificate of Origin?

The Certificate of Origin is issued by: Chambers of Commerce, Government trade agencies, Exporters (for certain types).