Export/Import Procedures and Documentation, 5th Edition

Chapter 7

Importing: Purchase Documentation

The single most important document in importing is the purchase agreement. Just as in exporting, most of the problems that occur in importing can be eliminated or greatly reduced by using a suitable purchase agreement. Far too often companies will seek products suppliers over the Internet with little background research on the company and then purchase without even knowing if the foreign seller has terms and conditions; then when something happens to the shipment there is a dispute over the purchase order requirements or the responsibilities of the parties. Generally, different types of documentation are used for isolated purchase transactions as opposed to ongoing purchase transactions. The various ...