Process Your Export Documents with Ease

We have partnered with Chamber Export to assist your business's export document needs.

These documents include Certificates of Origin, Commercial Invoices, and Packing Lists, which are used to verify that goods originated in or were processed in a particular country. The documents are processed electronically, eliminating courier costs and the need for paper processing, and reducing turnaround time—typically in less than an hour. Certificates of Free Sale and Letter of Verification are also available to be processed manually.

Types of Export Documents

●      Electronic Documents - We process certificates of origin, commercial invoices, and packing lists quickly and securely, through our electronic software so you are able to ship internationally with ease. Get Started.

●      Certificates of Free Sale - Based on a sworn affidavit from your company, we are able to process certificates of free sale so that international importers are assured your product is freely sold in the United States of America. This document will be notarized and eligible for an apostille with the North Carolina Secretary of State. Get Started.

●      Letters of Verification - With our on-staff notary, we are able to process certificates of verification with accuracy and timeliness. This document will be notarized and eligible for an apostille with the North Carolina Secretary of State. Get Started.

Exporters and freight forwarders now have a seamless and streamlined electronic solution for export document processing. Visit ChamberExport.com to learn more and get started.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Certificate of Origin?

A Certificate of Origin (CO) is a document that states the origin of goods being exported. Virtually every country in the world considers the origin of imported goods when determining what duty will be assessed on the goods or, in some cases, whether the goods may be legally imported at all.

What is a Certificate of Free Sales (COFS)?

A Certificate of Free Sale allows an exporter to declare to the importing country that the goods are sold in the USA. When regulated by a government agency (FDA, Department of Agriculture, etc), that agency would likely need to issue the COFS.

What is a Letter of Verification / Authentication?

A Letter of Verification/Authentication is a document to verify the authenticity of any other document or proof needed in the export process. The Carolina Chamber Export Assistance Center will produce this document letterhead and create it based on the affidavit provided by the exporter and verified against the proof as outlined by the exporter.

Why do I need a Certificate of Origin?

This document is important because it provides evidence to the importing country that the goods being shipped were actually produced in the country of origin that is claimed by the exporter. This is vital because certain countries may have trade agreements or regulations in place that require the imported goods to be of a certain origin or meet certain standards. Having a certificate of origin authorized by a chamber of commerce can also help to expedite the customs clearance process in the importing country, as it provides the necessary documentation to verify the origin of the goods. This can help to reduce delays, costs, and potential legal issues associated with importing goods without proper documentation.

Why do I have to use a Chamber of Commerce?

Chambers of commerce have been issuing non-preferential certificates of origin since as early as 1898. The 1923 Geneva Convention and subsequent Kyoto Convention have seen governments formally recognize the important role chambers play in this domain, deeming them competent authorities and credible trusted third-parties in the issuance of COs. Since 1923, chambers of commerce are the official body that signs and stamps certificates of origin for exporters.

How long does it take to process a document?

The documents are processed electronically through a technology called essCert, eliminating courier costs, the need for paper processing, and reducing turnaround time (the average turnaround is less than an hour). We guarantee a 24-hour business day turnaround time.

When do I need to provide a U.S. Certificate of Origin?

An exporter needs a certificate of origin to provide evidence that the goods being shipped were produced or manufactured in a particular country. This is important for complying with trade regulations and for claiming preferential treatment under certain trade agreements. The certificate of origin also helps customs officials determine the appropriate duty or tariff to apply to the imported goods.