Export documentation for live medicinal leeches
A live-animal export succeeds or fails on paperwork. This checklist describes the documents Suluk Sepeti prepares, the documents the buyer must arrange, and how weight classes appear on commercial paperwork.
Not customs advice. Destination requirements differ and change. The definitive list is confirmed in writing for each quotation.
Documents prepared by Suluk Sepeti
| Document | Content | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial invoice | Buyer, Incoterm, currency, quantity and unit price per weight class | USD or EUR; ex-works unless agreed otherwise |
| Packing list | Number of boxes, animals per box, class per box, gross/net weight | Mirrors how classes are physically packed |
| Species and origin declaration | Hirudo verbana, aquaculture facility certificate 46-86, batch code | Supports CITES source code and traceability |
| CITES export permit | Issued by the Turkish management authority for the specific shipment | Fees and lead time set by authority |
| Health / origin certificate | Where the destination authority requests one | Format depends on destination |
| Transport document | Airway bill or courier waybill, live-animal labelling | IATA Live Animals Regulations apply for air freight |
Documents arranged by the buyer
- Import permit or prior notification required by the destination country (CITES import permit where the destination requires one)
- Veterinary or border inspection booking, if applicable
- Customs broker appointment and any end-use declarations required for clinical use
- Proof of eligibility to receive live animals for clinical or research purposes, where local law requires it
How weight classes appear on paper
Each class is a separate invoice line and a separate packing-list line. Example: S · 0.3 – 0.5 g · 200 pcs. Boxes are labelled with class and batch code so the receiving unit can reconcile the packing list against the physical count on arrival.
Typical sequence
- RFQ received; destination requirements checked.
- Quotation and pro-forma invoice issued; buyer confirms and starts import-side applications.
- Exporter-side permit application with buyer details.
- Permits available → dispatch scheduled (target within 7 business days).
- Document set shared electronically at dispatch; originals travel with the shipment where required.
Verification
The batch code printed on the packing list can be checked on the batch verification page, linking the paperwork to the recorded lot.
Frequently asked questions
Are weight classes a customs classification?
No. XS–L and Broodstock are commercial stock codes used on the invoice and packing list. Customs classification follows the tariff heading for live animals declared by the forwarder / customs broker.
Who arranges the import permit?
The buyer. Suluk Sepeti supplies the exporter-side documents and copies needed for the buyer’s application, but cannot apply to a foreign authority on the buyer’s behalf.
Can documents be issued in English?
Commercial documents (invoice, packing list, declarations) are issued in English. Official permits are issued in the format of the issuing authority, usually bilingual Turkish/English.
Related pages
- CITES & export permits
- Live shipping & cold chain
- MOQ, lead time & payment
- Batch verification
- International orders
Informational and commercial-context content only; not medical advice. Suluk Sepeti does not perform hirudotherapy. Product selection and treatment planning belong to authorised practitioners.