Commercial Invoices
International Shipping Links
Commercial Invoices
The Commercial Invoice is prepared by you. If the words "Proforma Invoice" are typed in the upper right corner, it can be used by the importer to apply for an import license, letter of credit or other form of payment at the importer's bank.
The commercial invoice acts as a bill of sale from you to the buyer and specifies goods, quantities shipped, prices and terms of sale. It can be used by foreign governments to determine the value of goods for assessment of local customs duties and taxes, and to control the importation of prohibited goods into the local economy.
A commercial invoice can also serve as a "legalized invoice" for certain countries when stamped by an authorized government official of the importing country.
Routing of a Commercial Invoice
Routing with a Letter of Credit: The completed commercial invoice is sent from you to your forwarder, then to the BANKS, and finally to the consignee (or to the designated agent of the consignee) for clearance of the shipment through local customs. The commercial invoice must agree exactly with all of the terms and conditions of the Letter of Credit.
Routing without a Letter of Credit The commercial invoice is sent by you to your forwarder, and then to the consignee (or designated agent of consignee) for clearance of the shipment through local customs. The commercial invoice must agree exactly with all of the terms and conditions of the sale.
Definitions of Terms in a Commercial Invoice
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Presenting Bank: | Name of Exporter's Bank |
| Country of Origin of Goods: | Country where the goods were produced. |
| Port of Lading: | Final port of loading in the exporter's country. |
| Terms and Conditions of Delivery and Payment: | Examples: Prepaid, letter of credit, etc. |
| Other Transportation Information: | Example: "no transshipment allowed" |
| Weights and Measurements: | State total weights and measurements for the entire shipment. You are not required to list weights and measurements of the individual containers. Use both U. S. and metric measurements. |
Sample Documents - Commercial Invoices
Click here to view/download a sample of a Commercial Invoice for International Shipment.