What is a Shipper’s Letter of Origin (SLO)?

01 August 2024

If you’ve ever been involved in shipping goods internationally, you’ve likely heard of the Shipper’s Letter of Origin (SLO). But what exactly is it, and why is it important for your business?

What is a Shipper’s Letter of Origin?

In short, an SLO is a document that provides essential information about your shipment. It typically includes details such as the origin of the goods, a description of what’s being shipped, and the names and addresses of the shipper and consignee. This information is critical for customs officials and other authorities to verify the legality and contents of the shipment, so having an accurate and complete SLO is crucial for avoiding delays or other issues.

While an SLO is similar to a Certificate of Origin, which provides information about the origin of the goods, there are some key differences. An SLO is typically used for individual shipments, while a Certificate of Origin is often used for larger quantities of goods or recurring shipments. Additionally, an SLO may also include details about the value and destination of the shipment, which may not be necessary for a Certificate of Origin.

Why is the Shipper’s Letter of Origin Important?

So, why is having an SLO important for your business? Firstly, it helps to ensure that your shipment clears customs smoothly and without delays. Customs officials rely on this document to verify that the contents of the shipment are legal and legitimate. If there are any discrepancies or missing information, it can cause delays, extra fees, or even seizure of the goods.

In addition to its practical benefits, an SLO can also provide added transparency and security for your business. By providing detailed information about your shipment, you can help prevent any misunderstandings or disputes with your customers or partners. It also helps protect your business from liability in case of any issues that may arise with the shipment.

Conclusion

In summary, an SLO may seem like just another piece of paperwork, but it’s an essential document that can have a big impact on your business. By ensuring that you have an accurate and complete SLO for each shipment, you can guarantee that your goods clear customs smoothly and without delays, while also protecting your business from any potential disputes or liability issues.

So, if you’re involved in international trade, make sure you understand the importance of the Shipper’s Letter of Origin and how to obtain one for your shipments.