Certificate of origin template provides an editable starting point to record the exporter, consignee, shipment, goods, origin country, and certification details. The downloads on this page are designed for exporters, manufacturers, freight agents, and trading businesses. Choose the layout that fits your needs, replace the sample information, and review every entry before printing, sharing, or using the completed document.
For connected tasks, you may also use our packing list templates, delivery receipt templates, and supplier list template.
A ready-made certificate of origin template in Word can save time when preparing trade documentation. You can customize the available fields with exporter information, consignee details, product descriptions, quantities, shipping information, and origin-related details according to the requirements of the transaction.
Certificate of origin requirements can vary depending on the destination country, product, trade agreement, and customs procedure. Therefore, a general template should be adapted to the requirements of the relevant authorities or certifying organization.
What Is a Certificate of Origin?
A Certificate of Origin (COO) is a trade document that identifies the country in which goods are considered to originate under applicable origin rules. Customs authorities may use origin information when determining whether goods qualify for particular tariff treatment, trade agreement benefits, quotas, restrictions, or other import requirements.
A certificate of origin format commonly contains information about the exporter, importer or consignee, goods, quantity, shipment, and declared origin.
There are different types of certificates of origin. A non-preferential certificate of origin generally identifies the origin of goods without providing preferential tariff treatment. A preferential certificate or origin declaration may be used when goods qualify for reduced or zero-duty treatment under a specific trade agreement.
The required document and certification process depend on the applicable customs and trade rules.
What Should a Certificate of Origin Include?
The exact requirements differ between jurisdictions and trade arrangements, but a certificate of origin template may include:
- Exporter’s name and address
- Importer or consignee information
- Producer information, where required
- Country of origin
- Product description
- Quantity and units
- Invoice number
- Shipment or transport details
- Export destination
- Declaration by the exporter or authorized party
- Certification details
- Authorized signature
- Date of issue
Some certificates may require additional information such as HS codes, tariff classifications, manufacturing details, or specific declarations prescribed by a trade agreement.
Why Use a Certificate of Origin Template?
Preparing international trade documents from a blank page can be time-consuming. A free certificate of origin template provides a starting structure that helps organize the information required for a shipment.
A standardized format can also reduce the risk of leaving out basic information. Exporters can customize the document for their products and transactions while maintaining a consistent approach to trade documentation.
The template available on this page is presented as an editable Microsoft Word document, allowing users to modify text and other document elements before preparing their own version.
However, a template does not determine the legal origin of goods. The information entered should be supported by appropriate commercial and production records, and the completed document should follow the requirements of the destination country and relevant certifying authority.
How to Prepare a Certificate of Origin
Start by entering the exporter’s and consignee’s information. Add the relevant invoice, shipment, and product details, including an accurate description of the goods.
Next, determine the applicable origin rules for the products. This is particularly important when preferential tariff treatment is being claimed under a free trade agreement or other trade arrangement.
Enter the origin information and complete any required declarations. Depending on the country and type of certificate, the document may need to be signed, stamped, issued, or certified by an authorized organization such as a chamber of commerce or another designated authority.
Before submission, compare the certificate with the commercial invoice, packing list, shipping documents, and other records to ensure that the information is consistent.
Certificate of Origin vs. Commercial Invoice
A certificate of origin and commercial invoice serve different purposes. A commercial invoice provides transaction and pricing information for goods being sold or shipped, while a certificate of origin provides information about the origin of those goods.
Both documents may be required as part of an international shipment. The exact documentation depends on the destination, product, customs requirements, and terms of the transaction.
Download Free Certificate of Origin Template
Use the certificate of origin template as a starting point for organizing information required for international trade documentation. Customize it according to the shipment and applicable requirements.
Before using a completed certificate for customs or preferential tariff purposes, verify the current requirements of the importing country, relevant trade agreement, and authorized certifying organization.
Editable Certificate of Origin Template
This editable certificate provides fields for exporter, consignee, transport, goods description, quantities, origin details, certification and authorization.
Click on the download button below to download this
Two More Free Certificate of Origin Templates
This page includes three downloadable certificate of origin templates with different layouts. Choose the format that fits your workflow and customize it before use.
Simple Certificate of Origin Template
This editable Word template uses a structured table layout for certificate of origin tasks.
Download Simple Certificate of Origin Template
Sectioned Certificate of Origin Template
This Word alternative uses a distinctly different sectioned fill-in layout.
Download Sectioned Certificate of Origin Template
Related Templates
You may also find our packing list templates and our delivery receipt templates useful.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a certificate of origin template?
A certificate of origin template is a ready-made document that helps you organize the essential information in a clear, consistent format.
Can I edit these certificate of origin templates?
Yes. Download the template and customize the wording, fields, headings, colors, and layout to match your needs.
Are these templates free to download?
Yes. The templates on this page are available as free downloads for personal, educational, or business use, as appropriate.
Can I print the completed template?
Yes. Review the information and page layout first, then print the completed document on your preferred paper size.
FAQs
1. What is a certificate of origin?
A certificate of origin is a trade document identifying the country of origin of goods according to applicable origin rules and requirements.
2. What is a certificate of origin template?
It is a preformatted document that provides fields for recording exporter, consignee, product, shipment, and origin information.
3. What information does a certificate of origin include?
It may include exporter and importer details, product descriptions, quantities, invoice information, country of origin, shipment details, declarations, signatures, and certification information.
4. Can I edit a certificate of origin template in Word?
Yes. The template on this page is presented as an editable Microsoft Word document that can be customized for the relevant transaction.
5. Who issues a certificate of origin?
The process varies by country and certificate type. The exporter or producer may provide the origin information, while an authorized chamber of commerce or other designated authority may certify or issue the document where required.
6. Is a certificate of origin required for every international shipment?
No. Requirements depend on the destination country, products, trade arrangements, customs rules, and circumstances of the shipment.
7. What is the difference between preferential and non-preferential origin?
Non-preferential origin generally identifies the origin of goods for customs and trade purposes. Preferential origin relates to specific trade agreements or arrangements that may allow qualifying goods to receive reduced or zero customs duties.
8. Can a certificate of origin template guarantee customs clearance?
No. A template only provides a document format. Customs clearance depends on the accuracy and completeness of the documentation and compliance with the applicable import requirements.
