Shipper's Letter of Instruction (SLI)

What is a Shipper's Letter of Instruction?

A Shipper's Letter of Instruction (SLI) is a 'letter' from the exporter instructing the freight forwarder on how and where to handle the export shipment. The exporter is granting permission to the forwarder to act as the authorized forwarding agent for U.S. export control and customs.

All U.S. export shipments require a completed SLI. Your Flexport team will send you an SLI to fill out as soon as a U.S. export shipment is initiated.

What does an SLI include?

An SLI typically lists the exporter and consignee names and addresses, a description of the goods, their value, and routing instructions. It often includes the export classification (Schedule B number) and states whether the exporter is the U.S. principal party in interest (USPPI). The forwarder uses these details to file the Electronic Export Information (EEI) in the Automated Export System (AES) when a filing is required.

Why does accuracy matter on an SLI?

The exporter is responsible for the information on the SLI. Errors in value, classification or destination can delay a shipment and may lead to penalties, so review every field before you sign.

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