What Is an Export Entry & SLI?
Every commercial export from New Zealand requires an Export Customs Import (ECI) lodged with NZ Customs, along with a Shipper’s Letter of Instruction (SLI) that provides your freight forwarder with all the details needed to handle your shipment correctly.
Export Entry (ECI)
The official declaration to NZ Customs that you’re exporting goods. Lodged electronically via the Trade Single Window (TSW) system.
Purpose: Customs clearance, statistics, and compliance monitoring.
Shipper’s Letter of Instruction (SLI)
A comprehensive document you provide to your freight forwarder with all shipping instructions and requirements.
Purpose: Guides forwarder on booking, documentation, and delivery.
Why Both Documents Are Required
The Export Entry satisfies Customs legal requirements, while the SLI ensures your freight forwarder has all the information needed to execute your shipment correctly. Missing or incorrect information in either document can cause delays, customs holds, or rejected shipments.
What’s Included in the Export Entry?
An Export Customs Import (ECI) includes all the details NZ Customs needs to process your export.
Tariff Classification
HS code determining duty rates and export controls.
Goods Description
Detailed description of what’s being exported.
Value Declaration
FOB value for statistical reporting and verification.
Destination Country
Where the goods are being shipped to.
Exporter Details
Your business registration and contact information.
Mode of Transport
Air freight, sea freight, or courier service.
What’s Included in the Shipper’s Letter of Instruction?
The SLI provides your freight forwarder with all the details they need to execute your shipment correctly.
Shipper & Consignee
Full names and addresses for sender and receiver.
Shipment Details
Weight, dimensions, number of packages.
Cargo Description
Detailed goods description and HS codes.
Freight Terms
Incoterms (FOB, CIF, DDP, etc.) and payment terms.
Special Instructions
Handling requirements, insurance, delivery notes.
Required Documents
Certificates, invoices, and permits needed.
How It Works
Our streamlined process ensures accurate customs entries and comprehensive shipping instructions.
Classify Goods
We determine the correct Harmonised System (HS) tariff code for your products based on their composition and intended use.
Lodge Entry
We submit your Export Customs Import (ECI) electronically via the Trade Single Window (TSW) system to NZ Customs.
Prepare SLI
We create a comprehensive Shipper’s Letter of Instruction for your freight forwarder with all shipping details and requirements.
Important: TSW Registration Required
To lodge export entries via the Trade Single Window, you must have a registered TSW account. If you don’t have one, we can assist with the registration process or lodge entries on your behalf using our credentials.
Transparent Pricing
Export Entry & SLI
- HS tariff classification
- ECI lodgement via TSW
- Comprehensive SLI preparation
- Full customs compliance
- 24-48 hour turnaround
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an export entry for every shipment?
Yes, for commercial exports. Every commercial export from New Zealand requires an Export Customs Import (ECI) lodged with NZ Customs. Personal shipments and gifts under certain value thresholds may be exempt.
What is the Trade Single Window (TSW)?
The Trade Single Window is NZ Customs’ electronic system for lodging import and export declarations. It replaced the older CusMod system and provides a modern, streamlined interface for trade compliance. All export entries must be lodged via TSW.
How do I get the correct HS code for my products?
Harmonised System (HS) codes can be complex. They’re based on product composition, function, and intended use. We provide professional tariff classification as part of this service to ensure accuracy backed by our fee-coverage guarantee. Incorrect HS codes can result in customs delays or penalties.
Can my freight forwarder lodge the export entry?
Yes. Many freight forwarders offer export entry lodgement as part of their service. However, having us prepare both the Export Entry and SLI together ensures consistency between documents and reduces the risk of discrepancies that can cause delays.
How long does it take to lodge an export entry?
Once we have all required information, we typically lodge export entries within 24-48 hours. The entry is processed instantly by NZ Customs’ system, and you receive confirmation immediately. The SLI is prepared in parallel for your freight forwarder.
Related Services
Documentation Bundle
Your Export Entry data must match your commercial documents. Our bundle ensures full consistency.
Bill of Lading Coordination
Your SLI feeds directly into the Bill of Lading. We coordinate both to prevent costly amendments.
HS Code Classification
Correct HS codes are required for your Export Entry. Get expert classification from $25 per product.
The Export Entry and SLI are just two of the documents required for a compliant shipment. For a complete overview of every document involved in exporting from New Zealand, see our comprehensive guide to export documentation from New Zealand.