Commercial invoice template
Commercial invoice template is the standard customs and export document used by sellers and shippers to declare goods for international shipment. It acts as a bill of sale and supports customs clearance, duty assessment, and foreign exchange. It must include parties, product descriptions, HS codes, quantities, values, weight, shipping terms (Incoterms), and often a destination control statement.
Commercial invoice template Sample
Commercial invoice template
123 Business Street, City, Country
Phone: (123) 456-7890
Email: contact@company.com
Commercial invoice template
Bill To:
Client Name
Client Address
Client City, Country
Phone: (987) 654-3210
Email: client@example.com
Invoice #: 12345
Date: 2024-10-10
Due Date: 2024-11-10
| Item | Description | Qty | Price | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Service A | Itemized service or product | 1 | $100.00 | $100.00 |
| Service B | Additional line item | 2 | $50.00 | $100.00 |
| Subtotal | $200.00 | |||
| Tax (10%) | $20.00 | |||
| Total Due | $220.00 | |||
An invoice should include your business or name, the customer’s details, the date and invoice number, and a line-by-line breakdown of what was provided. Including payment terms—such as due on receipt, Net 15, or Net 30—helps you get paid on time and keeps records clear for taxes.
Supporting resources
| Resource | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|
| U.S. Trade.gov Commercial Invoice | Government | Required for export/import clearance; must include pro forma info plus HS code and destination control statement. Country-specific forms may apply. |
| Required elements | Checklist | Seller and buyer with full contact and tax IDs; description, quantity, origin; HS codes; declared value and total; net/gross weight; freight and insurance; Incoterms; date and signature. |
| FedEx Commercial Invoice Guide | Industry guide | How to complete commercial invoices for international shipping; format and field explanations. |
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a commercial invoice used for?
- It is the main document customs use to assess duties and taxes and clear goods. It also serves as the bill of sale between exporter and importer and may be used for foreign exchange.
- Do I need an HS code on a commercial invoice?
- Yes. Harmonized System codes classify goods for customs and help speed clearance. Use the code that matches the product in the destination country’s tariff schedule.
- Is there one standard format for commercial invoices worldwide?
- No single global form exists. Many countries accept the seller’s format if it has all required data; some require a specific customs or consular form—check destination requirements.