What Is a Commercial Invoice?

A commercial invoice is a customs document used in international trade. It accompanies a shipment of goods and provides the information customs authorities need to assess duty, taxes, and import controls. It's different from a tax invoice — though for small businesses the same document can serve both purposes.

A commercial invoice typically includes:

  • Seller's name, address, and contact details
  • Buyer's name, address, and contact details
  • Invoice number and date
  • Description of the goods, including HS (Harmonised System) codes
  • Quantity, unit price, and total value per line
  • Currency of sale
  • Terms of sale (Incoterms — FOB, CIF, EXW, etc.)
  • Country of origin
  • Shipping method and tracking number
  • Total invoice value
  • Declaration and signature of the exporter

Commercial invoices don't include GST or VAT (those are handled at the import end). They're required for customs clearance on most international shipments. If you ship internationally, attach the commercial invoice to the package and email a copy to the buyer. InvoiceSonic supports international invoicing with multi-currency totals.

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