PDF guide for international traders and importers/exporters

2 min read·15 September 2026

International traders produce export invoices, freight documents, certificates of origin, customs declarations, and letters of credit for cross-border trade. Accurate PDF management is critical for the speed of customs clearance and the legal validity of trade transactions.

Merging trade dossiers per shipment

A complete export shipment requires the commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or airway bill, certificate of origin, and where applicable phytosanitary or veterinary certificates. Merge all documents into one PDF per shipment, numbered with the shipment reference.

Digitally signing certificates of origin

Certificates of origin (EUR.1, Form A, Certificate of Origin) are signed by the exporter and certified by the Chamber of Commerce. Use the sign tool for the exporter's digital signature. Save the certified document as PDF/A for archiving.

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Securing letters of credit

A letter of credit (L/C) is a bank document that provides payment security. Letters of credit contain confidential financial information. Protect L/C documents with edit restrictions and stamp them with the L/C number and expiry date.

OCR-archiving customs declarations

Customs declarations (Single Administrative Document / SAD) are retained after processing as proof of import or export for the tax authority. Scan received paper declarations and apply OCR so declaration numbers, commodity codes (HS codes), and amounts are searchable.

Compressing freight documents

Bills of lading, packing lists, and inspection reports are exchanged via email with shipping lines, forwarders, and customs agents. Compress the PDF for rapid transfer while all text fields remain legible for scanners of customs systems.