Letter of Credit Documents Checklist
The documents banks typically examine under an LC, and the consistency checks to run before you present.
What it is
Under a documentary letter of credit, the bank pays (or undertakes to pay) against a complying presentation of documents — not against inspection of the goods. If any required document is missing or conflicts with the credit, the bank can refuse the presentation.
Your job as exporter is to read the LC early, map every document named in it, and prepare a set that agrees with both the credit and itself.
Documents commonly required
Commercial invoice (often in a stated number of originals/copies). Transport document (ocean B/L, multimodal transport document, or AWB as specified). Packing list. Certificate of origin. Insurance document when the Incoterm or credit requires the seller to insure. Inspection or analysis certificates when named.
The exact list is whatever the LC says. A “standard” set is not enough if the credit adds a specific certificate or wording requirement.
Consistency checks before presentation
Goods description, quantities, and amounts must not conflict across invoice, packing list, transport document, and certificates. Names of applicant and beneficiary should match the credit. Ports, Incoterms, and latest shipment date must fit what the documents show.
Check partial shipment and transhipment rules, presentation period after shipment, and whether originals must be endorsed. Fix mismatches before the documents leave your office.
Common mistakes
Waiting until after shipment to read the LC. Invoice totals that exceed the LC amount. Transport document type that the credit does not allow. Certificate of origin issued by the wrong body. Late presentation after the allowed number of days from the transport document date.
How Bilexor helps
Bilexor keeps commercial invoice and packing list data on one shipment record so the core trade documents you present start from the same figures instead of retyped copies.
Informational only — not banking or UCP advice. Confirm LC terms with your bank before you ship or present documents.
Frequently asked questions
What documents are needed for a letter of credit?
Whatever the LC lists — commonly a commercial invoice, transport document, packing list, and often a certificate of origin or insurance document. Always work from the credit text, not a generic checklist alone.
Why do banks reject LC documents?
Missing documents, late presentation, or inconsistencies between documents and the credit (names, amounts, goods description, shipment dates, or wrong transport document type).
Informational only — not legal, banking, tax, or customs advice. Always verify document and LC requirements with your bank, CHA / customs broker, and buyer before presentation.