Certificate of Origin (CO)

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Certificate of Origin (CO): Definition, Types, and How to Obtain One

What is a Certificate of Origin?

A Certificate of Origin (CO) is an official document used in international trade to certify the country where exported goods were produced. Customs authorities use it to determine applicable duties, enforce trade rules, and confirm eligibility for preferential tariff treatment under trade agreements.

Why COs matter

  • Determines import duties and tariff treatment.
  • Verifies eligibility for free‑trade or preferential programs.
  • Helps enforce trade sanctions, embargoes, and environmental protections.
  • Supports supply‑chain transparency and ethical sourcing (e.g., detecting forced labor or illegal wildlife products).
  • Facilitates customs clearance and reduces the risk of shipment delays or refusal.

Main types of Certificates of Origin

  • Nonpreferential (ordinary) CO
  • Confirms origin but does not qualify the goods for reduced or duty‑free treatment. Used when no trade agreement or tariff relief applies.
  • Preferential CO
  • Confirms that goods meet origin rules under a free‑trade agreement (FTA) or preferential program (e.g., USMCA, GSP) and may qualify for reduced or zero tariffs.
  • FTA‑specific forms
  • Many FTAs require a particular declaration/form and specific wording; exporters must use the correct form to claim preferences.

How to obtain a CO

COs are issued or endorsed by an exporter and authenticated by an authorized body (typically a chamber of commerce or designated government agency). Processes vary by country but commonly follow these steps:

  1. Register
  2. Exporter or authorized representative registers with an accredited chamber or online certification platform.
  3. Apply
  4. Submit shipment details: exporter/importer contacts, goods description, tariff/classification codes, quantity/weight, transport details, commercial invoice, and origin evidence.
  5. Verification
  6. Issuing authority reviews documents and may verify origin information. Chambers generally certify only verifiable facts; unverifiable commercial attestations are noted accordingly.
  7. Issuance
  8. Once approved, the chamber issues an electronic or paper CO with an identification number and security features (e.g., QR code).
  9. Import verification
  10. Importing country customs or the buyer verifies authenticity via the issuing body’s verification system or the ICC platform.

Accredited third‑party providers can prepare COs on behalf of exporters and obtain chamber certification once provided with complete, accurate information.

Electronic COs

Many countries now use electronic COs. Digital certification:
* Speeds issuance (often within one business day).
* Allows secure online submission, stamping, and global electronic verification.
* Uses standardized security measures (unique IDs, QR codes) maintained by bodies like the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC).

What a CO typically contains

  • Producer/exporter name and contact details (and country of origin)
  • Exporter and importer details
  • Description of goods and relevant product/tariff codes (HS codes)
  • Quantity, weight, dimensions
  • Transport document numbers (bill of lading, airway bill) and route/mode of transport
  • Commercial invoice reference and date
  • Statement of origin and signature or digital endorsement by the issuing authority
  • Identification number/QR code for verification

Simple explanation (Explain Like I’m Five)

Different countries charge different fees on goods depending on where they come from. A Certificate of Origin is a form that says “this product was made in X country.” Customs uses it to decide if a shipment pays full fees, lower fees, or no fees at all.

Common questions

  • Who issues a CO?
  • Exporters prepare the CO; chambers of commerce or designated authorities authenticate it.
  • Can I create my own CO?
  • Exporters complete the CO, but it generally must be certified/endorsed by the relevant chamber or authority for customs acceptance.
  • Is a CO the same as a title?
  • No. A CO documents origin and shipment details; transfer of ownership is handled by separate commercial documents (invoice, contract, bill of sale).
  • When is a CO required?
  • When importing countries demand proof of origin for customs, when claiming preferential tariff treatment, or when specified in contractual terms (e.g., letter of credit).

Bottom line

A Certificate of Origin is a key export document that certifies where goods were produced. It ensures correct tariff treatment, supports trade compliance, and—when issued electronically—streamlines cross‑border shipments through secure online verification. Exporters should work with an accredited issuing authority, provide accurate documentation, and use the correct CO form for any applicable trade agreement.