Commercial Invoice Guide
The commercial invoice is the most important document in international trade. It serves as the bill, customs declaration, and legal record of your transaction.
Required Invoice Fields
A complete commercial invoice must include all these fields. Missing information can cause customs delays, payment issues, or document rejection.
Seller Information
CriticalFull legal name, address, phone, email, tax ID/VAT number
Buyer Information
CriticalFull legal name, address, phone, email, importer ID
Invoice Number
CriticalUnique sequential number for reference and tracking
Invoice Date
CriticalDate of invoice creation
Order/PO Reference
Buyer's purchase order number if applicable
Terms of Sale
CriticalIncoterms (FOB, CIF, EXW, etc.) and named place
Payment Terms
CriticalDue date, method (L/C, T/T), currency
Description of Goods
CriticalDetailed description of each product
HS Code
CriticalHarmonized System code for each product line
Quantity
CriticalNumber of units with unit of measure
Unit Price
CriticalPrice per unit in agreed currency
Total Value
CriticalLine totals and grand total
Country of Origin
CriticalWhere goods were manufactured
Weight & Dimensions
Gross and net weight, package dimensions
Shipping Marks
Marks and numbers on packages
L/C Transactions
When paid by Letter of Credit, your invoice must match L/C terms exactly. Even minor discrepancies (spelling, quantities, dates) can result in rejection. Always compare line-by-line before submission.
Number of Copies
Typically prepare 3-5 original signed copies. Banks and customs may require specific numbers. Keep at least one copy for your records. Some countries require consular legalization.