Packing List

Term from Shipping industry explained for recruiters

A Packing List is a vital document in shipping and logistics that details everything included in a shipment. Think of it as a detailed inventory or checklist that tells both sender and receiver exactly what's in a package or container. This document is essential for customs clearance, inventory tracking, and ensuring nothing is missing from shipments. You might also see it called a "packing slip," "pack list," or "shipping list." It's a fundamental skill in shipping roles to be able to create, verify, and process these documents accurately.

Examples in Resumes

Processed over 200 Packing Lists daily for international shipments

Developed streamlined system for Pack List verification, reducing errors by 45%

Trained new employees on Packing Slip documentation and customs requirements

Managed Shipping List compliance for exports to 12 different countries

Typical job title: "Shipping Coordinators"

Also try searching for:

Logistics Coordinator Shipping Clerk Export Documentation Specialist Shipping Administrator Warehouse Coordinator Logistics Document Specialist

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle a situation where there's a discrepancy between the packing list and actual shipment contents?

Expected Answer: A senior professional should explain the investigation process, documentation requirements, communication with relevant parties, and proper procedures for resolving discrepancies while maintaining compliance with customs regulations.

Q: Describe your experience with implementing or improving packing list verification systems.

Expected Answer: Should discuss experience with creating efficient procedures, training staff, quality control measures, and how they've reduced errors and improved accuracy in shipping documentation.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What information must be included on a packing list for international shipments?

Expected Answer: Should list essential elements like sender/receiver details, item descriptions, quantities, weights, dimensions, and special handling instructions, while explaining why each is important.

Q: How do you ensure accuracy when processing multiple packing lists daily?

Expected Answer: Should describe their verification process, attention to detail, cross-checking methods, and systems they use to maintain accuracy under time pressure.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is the purpose of a packing list?

Expected Answer: Should explain that it's a document listing all items in a shipment, used for inventory control, customs clearance, and verification of shipment contents.

Q: How do you organize packing lists for easy reference?

Expected Answer: Should discuss basic filing systems, digital organization methods, and the importance of maintaining organized records for future reference.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-1 years)

  • Basic document processing
  • Data entry accuracy
  • Understanding of shipping terms
  • Basic computer skills

Mid (1-3 years)

  • International shipping documentation
  • Customs requirements knowledge
  • Problem-solving abilities
  • Communication with multiple departments

Senior (3+ years)

  • Process improvement
  • Team training and supervision
  • Complex shipment handling
  • Regulation compliance oversight

Red Flags to Watch For

  • Inability to pay attention to detail
  • Poor organization skills
  • Lack of basic computer proficiency
  • No experience with shipping documentation
  • Poor communication skills