Packing List Generator
Generate a downloadable packing list for your freight shipment. Add shipper and consignee details, list every item with quantities, weights, and dimensions, then download as a CSV file.
How to use: Enter shipper and consignee details, add items with quantities, weights, and dimensions, then download your packing list as a CSV. No account needed.
Why accurate packing lists matter
A packing list is one of the first documents checked at delivery. Warehouse staff use it to verify that what arrived matches what was ordered. If the packing list is inaccurate or missing, receiving teams have to count and weigh everything manually, which delays intake and can trigger disputes between shipper and receiver.
For carriers, an accurate packing list helps avoid reweigh and reclassification charges. When the declared weight and piece count match the actual shipment, there are no surprises at the scale and no delays at the dock. A packing list also provides backup documentation for freight claims if items are damaged or missing on arrival.
What to include on your packing list
Every packing list should include the shipper name and full address, the consignee name and full delivery address, an order or purchase order number for reference, and the ship date. The item section should list each product or commodity with a clear description, the quantity being shipped, the weight per unit or per line, and the dimensions (length, width, height) of each package or pallet.
If you are shipping multiple SKUs or mixed pallets, list each item on its own line so the receiver can check off each one individually. Including dimensions helps the carrier plan loading and prevents damage from improper stacking.
Packing list vs BOL vs commercial invoice
Packing list FAQ
What is a packing list?
A packing list is a shipping document that itemizes the contents of a freight shipment. It includes the shipper and consignee information, a description of each item, quantities, weights, and dimensions. Carriers, warehouses, and receivers use it to verify what was shipped and confirm what arrived.
What should a packing list include?
A packing list should include the shipper name and address, consignee name and address, order or PO number, ship date, and a line-by-line breakdown of every item in the shipment with description, quantity, weight, and dimensions. Accurate weights and dimensions help avoid carrier reweigh charges and delivery delays.
What is the difference between a packing list and a bill of lading?
A packing list details the contents of a shipment for the receiver and warehouse. A bill of lading (BOL) is the legal contract between the shipper and carrier that governs the transportation itself. The BOL includes freight class, carrier liability, and serves as proof of delivery. Both documents travel with the shipment, but they serve different purposes.
What should be on a freight packing list?
A freight packing list should include shipper name and full address, consignee name and delivery address, PO or order number, ship date, and a detailed line-item breakdown of every product or commodity. Each line should list the item description, SKU or part number (if applicable), quantity, unit weight, and package dimensions. For palletized freight, include the number of pallets, total pallet weight, and individual pallet dimensions. Adding handling instructions (fragile, this side up, temperature requirements) helps prevent damage during transit.
Is a packing list required for LTL shipments?
A packing list is not legally required for domestic LTL shipments, but it is strongly recommended. Carriers require a bill of lading, which serves as the legal shipping contract. However, a packing list provides the detailed item-level breakdown that the BOL does not include. Without a packing list, receiving warehouses cannot verify the contents of each pallet against the purchase order, which leads to intake delays and disputes. For international shipments, a packing list is required by customs alongside the commercial invoice.
How does a packing list help with freight claims?
A packing list is critical documentation for freight claims. When you file a claim for damaged or missing goods, you need to prove what was in the shipment and its value. The packing list provides the itemized record of contents, quantities, and weights that you can compare against what was actually received. Without a packing list, your claim relies solely on the BOL, which typically only has summary descriptions. Carriers are more likely to approve claims quickly when the packing list clearly documents the shipment contents and matches the BOL.
Can I use the same packing list for multiple shipments?
You should not reuse the same packing list across multiple shipments. Each packing list should be unique to a specific shipment with its own ship date, PO number, and item quantities. Reusing a packing list creates confusion at the receiving dock and can lead to inventory discrepancies. If you ship the same items regularly, use this generator to create a template with your standard item descriptions, then adjust quantities and dates for each shipment. This saves time while keeping each packing list accurate and traceable.
What is the difference between a packing list and a commercial invoice?
A packing list describes the physical contents of a shipment (items, quantities, weights, dimensions) for logistics purposes. A commercial invoice is a financial document that declares the monetary value of goods for customs and payment purposes. The commercial invoice includes unit prices, total value, currency, payment terms, and Harmonized System (HS) codes for customs classification. For domestic shipments, you typically need only a packing list and BOL. For international shipments, you need all three: packing list, BOL, and commercial invoice.
Ship with Warp and skip the paperwork
When you book through Warp, packing lists and BOLs are generated automatically from your shipment details. Quote 1 to 26 pallets instantly.