Commercial Invoice – Purpose & Key Fields

Purpose of the Commercial Invoice

• Bill for goods from seller to buyer
• Basis for customs valuation and duty calculation
• Required document for Letter of Credit
• Proof of transaction for accounting
• Foundation for other export documents

Who issues the Commercial Invoice

• Exporter
• Seller
• Manufacturer

When the Commercial Invoice is required

• All international shipments
• Customs clearance
• LC payments
• Tax/duty assessment

Key fields on the Commercial Invoice

• Seller Details (required): Name, address, contact of seller
• Buyer Details (required): Name, address, contact of buyer
• Invoice Number (required): Unique reference number
• Invoice Date (required): Date of issue
• Description of Goods (required): Detailed product description
• HS Code (required): Harmonized System tariff code
• Quantity (required): Number of units
• Unit Price (required): Price per unit
• Total Value (required): Total invoice amount
• Currency (required): Currency of transaction
• Incoterms (required): Delivery terms (FOB, CIF, etc.)
• Country of Origin (required): Where goods were manufactured

Tips for the Commercial Invoice

• Ensure description matches LC requirements exactly
• Include correct HS codes to avoid customs delays
• State Incoterms clearly for responsibility clarity
• Keep copies for your records and tax purposes

More in this directory

• Customs Declaration – Purpose & Key Fields
• Dangerous Goods Declaration (DGD) – Purpose & Key Fields
• Export License – Purpose & Key Fields
• Health Certificate – Purpose & Key Fields
• Import License – Purpose & Key Fields
• Inspection Certificate – Purpose & Key Fields

Frequently asked questions