Stamp

In foreign trade terminology, 'Stamp' refers to affixing a company seal or signature stamp on commercial documents, contracts, and official papers to confirm their legal validity and authenticity. Common scenarios include: contract signing, commercial invoices, packing lists, certificates of origin, customs declarations, and bill of lading confirmation. Stamping is an indispensable step in foreign trade procedures, typically requiring the use of a company seal, legal representative seal, or bilingual (Chinese-English) bar stamp. Notes: Different countries/regions have varying requirements for the form and validity of seals. For example, European and American countries prefer handwritten signatures, while Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America often require company seals. If documents need embassy or chamber of commerce authentication, the format must be confirmed before stamping. Electronic seals are becoming more common, but must comply with the Electronic Signature Law and be accepted by the counterparty. Difference from 'Signature': A signature is a personal act, while a stamp is a corporate act; both are often required simultaneously, but some documents require only one. Difference from 'Authentication': Authentication is a third party's confirmation of the authenticity of a stamp, whereas the stamp itself is a self-declaration.