How do exporters and freight forwarders apply for a Certificate of Origin?

Exporters or their authorized freight forwarders submit shipment and product details through the Chamber Certification platform. Applications are reviewed by the issuing Chamber and returned as a PDF with a QR code for verification.

What information or documents are required to issue a COO?

Typical requirements include a commercial invoice, exporter and consignee details, product descriptions, an origin declaration, and shipment information. Additional supporting documents may be required based on buyer or destination requirements.

How long does it take to get a Certificate of Origin issued?

Many complete applications are approved the same business day. Processing time depends on Chamber review requirements and document completeness.

Are Certificates of Origin issued electronically, or as paper documents?

Most Certificates of Origin are issued electronically with digital delivery options, but some buyers or destinations require wet-stamped originals or originals for embassy legalization.

Can you assist with embassy legalization or apostille?

Yes. Embassy legalization and apostille services are available where required.

Do you support GTM systems or an API for Certificates of Origin?

Yes. REST API options are available for large exporters, freight forwarders, and Global Trade Management documentation providers.

Who is on America’s Export Team?

You are.

America’s export economy isn’t driven by a single agency or industry. It’s built by companies and professionals across the United States working together to move U.S. goods and services into global markets.

If you manufacture, ship, finance, certify, insure, or support exports in any way — you’re already part of America’s Export Team™.

Exports Power the U.S. Economy

U.S. Exports at a Glance

      11+ million
    
      U.S. jobs supported by exports
    
      97%
    
      of U.S. exporters are small & mid-sized businesses
    
      50 states & all

      U.S. territories
    
      participate in global exports
    
      Banks & finance
    
      support trade through credit, payment security, and document review

A Team Effort — By Design

Exports succeed because multiple players work together:

Exporting Companies creating globally competitive products and services
Freight Forwarders & Logistics Providers managing transport, customs, and documentation
Banks & Trade Finance Institutions supporting payment security and transaction confidence
Chambers of Commerce assisting exporters and helping validate trade documents
Trade & Compliance Software Providers modernizing export workflows and reducing errors

Each role is essential. None operates alone.

Trust Is the Foundation of Global Trade

International trade runs on trust — trust in documents, trust in processes, and trust between trading partners.

That’s why trade documentation, standardized export practices, and recognized certification frameworks matter. They support customs clearance, bank acceptance, and regulatory confidence in destination markets.

Organizations such as American World Trade Chamber of Commerce working with your local, state or regional Chamber of Commerce, export partners worldwide and the International Chamber of Commerce help support this ecosystem — working largely behind the scenes to promote consistency, recognition, and reliability in U.S. export documentation and processes.

Built Locally. Connected Globally.

America’s Export Team™ is decentralized and thus inherently flexible. It’s rooted in local businesses and regional expertise, and connected globally through shared standards, financial systems, and digital infrastructure.

Whether you’re exporting products, financing or insuring transactions, moving cargo, certifying documents, or enabling compliance through technology —

your role matters.

Together, we are America’s Export Team™.

Thank you for helping to build the American economy through exports.