What Are Trade Documents?
Trade Documents are Paper Documents (or electronic files) used in international trade to prove that certain events have taken place.
Documents for electronic trade are divided into two groups:
Electronic Trade Documents (ETD)
Electronic with Originals (EWO)
Electronic Trade Documents
The FedEx feature ETD is an automated international shipping solution that allows you to submit your customs documents electronically, so you do not have to print multiple copies. "ETD" is displayed on the shipping label when the shipment is going to a country that allows all required customs documentation to be submitted electronically.
Tip: Click here to display the list of countries that accept ETD .
Electronic with Originals
EWO enables you to upload your customs documents for countries that still require paper copies for customs clearance when using ETD. By uploading the documents for these shipments, you have the benefit of an early broker review of your documents, which may provide advanced notice to resolve any potential paperwork issues and minimize the chances of missing paperwork.
You are still required to print and attach the customs documents to the shipment to comply with regulatory requirements. Be sure to apply a signature to all documents, whether it is an original signature on paper documents or a signature image on electronic documents. "EWO" is displayed on the label when the documents have been submitted electronically and paper copies have been placed in the pouch. This feature also reduces the number of documents that need to be printed.