Certificate of Quantity is a written document issued by an independent inspection agency (such as SGS or CCIC) or the seller, certifying the actual quantity of goods. It is commonly used in letter of credit (L/C) settlement, bulk commodity trade (such as minerals, agricultural products, and chemicals), and legally inspected commodities. Usage scenarios include: the buyer requires third-party notarization of quantity to mitigate the risk of short shipment; the L/C requires submission of this certificate as a negotiating document; customs or importing country regulatory requirements. Precautions: the certificate must be issued by the inspection agency designated in the L/C, and the inspection time and place must meet the requirements; the quantity stated in the certificate should be consistent with the invoice and packing list, otherwise it may constitute a discrepancy; if issued by the seller itself, its probative value is weaker, and the buyer may require a third-party certificate. Difference from "Certificate of Weight": Certificate of Quantity focuses on the number of pieces, units, volume, etc., while Certificate of Weight focuses on gross weight, net weight, and tare weight; however, in practice, the two are often combined into a "Certificate of Quantity/Weight." It differs from a "Certificate of Quality," which certifies quality specifications.
📝 Examples
1. According to the requirements of the letter of credit, the seller shall obtain a quantity inspection certificate issued by SGS before shipment, certifying that the actual shipped quantity is 1,000 metric tons. (Note: In letter of credit settlement, the quantity inspection certificate serves as one of the documents for negotiation, ensuring compliance between documents and the credit.)
2. After receiving the goods, the importer discovered a shortage and filed a claim with the insurance company based on a third-party quantity inspection certificate. (Note: The quantity inspection certificate can serve as the basis for a claim, proving that the shortage occurred during the carrier's period of responsibility.)
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