Official Notice - Completion of the “Marks and Numbers” Section in UK Certificate of Origin

This notice provides step-by-step guidance on how to complete the “Marks and Numbers” section when applying for a UK Certificate of Origin (Box 6).  

1. Definition of “Marks and Numbers”  

“Marks and Numbers” refer to the shipping marks that appear on the goods or their packaging. This is the information shown on the shipping label at the time of export.  

On a Certificate of Origin the “Marks and Numbers” section is found in Box 6 on the left hand side. 

2. Use of General Statements  

Where goods are not specifically marked, you may use standard statements such as:  

“Fully addressed” – goods are marked with the full address.  

“As per consignee” – marks reflect the consignee’s details.  

“Unmarked” or “No marks” – no shipping marks are present. When these statements are used, no further supporting evidence is required.  

3. Use of Specific Marks  

If specific identifying details are entered (e.g., purchase order numbers or carton references), these must be evidenced in your supporting documentation. Example: If a Purchase Order (PO) number is listed, the same number must appear in your supporting paperwork.  

How properly evidenced marks can appear in your supporting documents 

Marks - PO1234 

Marks/Shipping Details - PO1234 

PO1234 (Marks) 

Marks/PO Number - PO1234 

4. Acceptable Evidence of marks can also be provided in the form of:  

• A copy or photograph of the shipping label.  

• Transport documents (e.g., Bill of Lading, Air Waybill) that display the marks.  

  
  

5. Consistency Requirement  

The Marks entered must be consistent with the description of goods. Example: If the description states that the goods are addressed to the consignee, it would be incorrect to state “Unmarked.” Inconsistent or inaccurate entries may result in delays or rejection of the application.