📦 Business Services
Free Commercial Invoice Template
Customs-ready invoices for international shipping - itemized goods, declared values, HS codes, origin, and Incoterms.
No credit card required. Free forever for unlimited invoices.
What to include
What goes on an Import / Export invoice?
🌍
Exporter, importer, and tax IDs
Show the full name and address of both the seller (exporter) and buyer (importer), plus any required tax or registration numbers such as EORI or VAT. Customs uses these to identify the parties and assess duties.
🔢
Itemized goods with HS codes
List each product with a clear description, quantity, unit value, the harmonized system (HS) tariff code, and country of origin. Accurate HS codes and descriptions are what keep a shipment from being held at the border.
💲
Declared value and currency
State the unit price, line totals, and the currency. The declared value determines duties and taxes, so it must match your sales records - under-declaring is illegal and over-declaring costs your buyer money.
🚢
Incoterms and reason for export
Specify the agreed Incoterm (e.g. EXW, FOB, CIF) so it is clear who pays freight and insurance, and state the reason for export (sale, sample, repair). Add a signature line to certify the information.
Pro tips
Import / Export invoicing tips that get you paid faster
A commercial invoice is a customs document, not a request for payment - the values declared must match your real sales records exactly.
Look up the correct HS tariff code for every product; the wrong code can cause delays, fines, or the wrong duty rate.
Always state the country of origin and the agreed Incoterm so responsibility for freight, insurance, and duties is unambiguous.
Include three copies with the shipment (one each for export, transit, and destination customs) and keep one for your records.
Sign and date the invoice - many customs authorities require a certified signature to clear the goods.
FAQs
Common questions about import / export invoices
What is a commercial invoice?
A commercial invoice is the primary customs document for an international shipment. It identifies the exporter and importer, itemizes the goods with values and HS codes, states the country of origin and Incoterms, and is used by customs to assess duties and clear the goods.
What is the difference between a commercial invoice and a regular invoice?
A regular invoice requests payment for goods or services. A commercial invoice is a customs and shipping document that declares the contents, value, and origin of an international shipment so it can clear customs - even if payment was already made.
What is the difference between a commercial invoice and a proforma invoice?
A proforma invoice is a preliminary quote sent before goods ship. A commercial invoice is the final document that accompanies the shipment and is used for customs clearance and duty assessment.
Do I need HS codes on a commercial invoice?
Yes. Harmonized System (HS) codes classify each product for customs and determine the duty rate. Including the correct HS code and country of origin for every line item helps your shipment clear customs without delays.
Use this template free
No PDF. No signup hassle. Just send.
Billed To
Nordic Imports AB
purchasing@nordicimports.se
Notes
Incoterms 2020: CIF Gothenburg. Country of origin: USA. Currency: USD. Reason for export: sale. These goods were produced in the United States. For customs purposes only.
Powered by WaffleInvoice
This is a live template in WaffleInvoice. Create your free account to customize and send it.
Ready to send your first invoice?
Use this import / export invoice template free.
Stop emailing PDFs and chasing payments manually. WaffleInvoice gives you this template - plus online payments, automatic reminders, and a client portal - completely free.
More templates
Related invoice templates
Import / Export
Invoice Template
Preliminary invoices that quote price, terms, and shipping before goods or services are delivered.
View template
Consulting
Invoice Template
Professional invoices for consultants - hourly, retainer, project-based, or deliverable billing.
View template
Freelancer
Invoice Template
Simple, professional invoices for freelancers - hourly or project work, expenses, and fast online payment.
View template