Free Commercial Invoice Template
A commercial invoice template for exporters shipping goods internationally through carriers like UPS, FedEx, or DHL. Download it free in Word, Excel, PDF, Google Docs, or Google Sheets and complete the fields customs officials require: HS tariff codes, country of origin, declared value, and Incoterms. A complete commercial invoice clears customs faster and helps officials assess the correct duties and taxes on your shipment.
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Try the live generator →What's on the commercial invoice template
| Description | Qty | Unit price | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cotton t-shirts, men's, HS 6109.10.00, made in USA - per unit | 100 | $8.50 | $850.00 |
| Stainless steel water bottles, HS 9617.00.10, made in USA - per unit | 50 | $12.00 | $600.00 |
| Wooden gift boxes, HS 4420.90.45, made in USA - per unit | 50 | $4.25 | $212.50 |
| Export packaging and crating | 1 | $75.00 | $75.00 |
| International freight (Incoterms: CIF) | 1 | $320.00 | $320.00 |
| Subtotal | $2,057.50 | ||
| Sales tax (8%) | $164.60 | ||
| Total | $2,222.10 | ||
Example figures — every field is editable in the download.
Who uses this template
- ✓US exporters and manufacturers shipping products abroad
- ✓Ecommerce sellers fulfilling international orders via UPS, FedEx, or DHL
- ✓Importers and distributors who need supplier paperwork for customs clearance
- ✓Freight forwarders and customs brokers preparing entry documents
- ✓Small businesses sending commercial samples or B2B goods overseas
What to include
- ✓Exporter (shipper) and importer (consignee) names, addresses, and contacts
- ✓Detailed description of each item with HS tariff classification code
- ✓Country of origin for each line item
- ✓Quantity, unit value, and total declared value in USD
- ✓Reason for export and terms of sale (Incoterms, e.g., FOB, CIF, DAP)
- ✓Total invoice value, currency, and number of packages with gross/net weight
- ✓Exporter signature, date, and any EIN or tax ID required by the destination
Available in 5 formats
Word (.docx)
Fully editable in Microsoft Word, Google Docs, Apple Pages and LibreOffice — best for quick text edits.
Excel (.xlsx)
Line totals, subtotal and tax calculate automatically — best if you want the math done for you.
A clean, print-ready, fixed layout — best for emailing a finished invoice to a client.
Google Docs / Sheets
Open in your browser, then File → Make a copy to edit and share with your team.
Invoicing tips for commercial
- ✓ Use the correct 6-10 digit HS code for each product - wrong codes cause customs delays and incorrect duty assessments.
- ✓ Declare the true transaction value; under-declaring to lower duties is illegal and can trigger seizure or penalties.
- ✓ State your Incoterms clearly (e.g., DAP, CIF) so it's unambiguous who pays freight, insurance, and import duties.
- ✓ Provide three signed copies - carriers typically need them attached to the outside of the shipment in a document pouch.
- ✓ Include your EORI or tax ID if shipping to the EU or UK, and note the country of origin per item, not just for the whole shipment.
Commercial invoice FAQ
What's the difference between a commercial invoice and a proforma invoice?
A proforma invoice is an estimate sent before goods ship, used for quotes or to arrange payment and import permits. A commercial invoice is the final document accompanying the actual shipment, used by customs to assess duties and clear goods. The commercial invoice reflects the real transaction value.
Do I need an HS code on a commercial invoice?
Yes for international shipments. The Harmonized System (HS) code classifies your product for customs and determines the duty rate. Use at least the 6-digit international code; some countries require 8-10 digits. The wrong code causes clearance delays.
What are Incoterms and why do they matter?
Incoterms (like FOB, CIF, DAP) are standardized trade terms that define who is responsible for shipping costs, insurance, and import duties, and at what point risk transfers from seller to buyer. Stating them on the invoice prevents disputes over who pays for what.
Does UPS or DHL accept this commercial invoice template?
Yes. Carriers like UPS, FedEx, and DHL accept any commercial invoice that contains the required fields: shipper and consignee details, itemized goods with HS codes, country of origin, declared value, and Incoterms. Print three signed copies to attach to the package.
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