Free Commercial Invoice Template for Export & Customs
Generate a customs-ready commercial invoice with HS codes and country of origin for international shipments.
Branding & Document Setup
Parties & Invoice Details
Line Items
| Description | HS Code | Country of Origin | Qty | Unit Price | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $925.00 | ||||||
| $240.00 | ||||||
| $725.00 |
Totals & Terms
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A4 · 210mm × 297mm| Description | HS Code | Origin | Qty | Unit Price | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Industrial Ball Bearing Assembly, Model IB-204 | — | — | 50 | $18.50 | $925.00 |
| Stainless Steel Fasteners, Box of 100 | — | — | 20 | $12.00 | $240.00 |
| Electric Motor, 1.5kW, 230V | — | — | 5 | $145.00 | $725.00 |
Payment is due within 14 days. Thank you for your business.
About the Commercial Export Invoice Template
A commercial export invoice is the document customs authorities use on both ends of a shipment to assess duties and taxes — it's not optional paperwork, it's what determines whether your goods clear customs or get held. Unlike a domestic invoice, every line item needs an HS (Harmonized System) code for tariff classification and a declared country of origin, since both directly affect the duty rate applied and whether the shipment qualifies for preferential treatment under a trade agreement. Small exporters most often get held up not because of pricing errors, but because of missing or mismatched HS codes and origin declarations.
Commercial Export Invoice FAQs
Is a commercial invoice the same as a proforma invoice?
No. A commercial invoice is issued after goods ship and is used by customs to assess duties; a proforma invoice is a preliminary quote sent before shipment, often to help the buyer arrange financing or import permits.
What happens if I get the HS code wrong?
An incorrect HS code can trigger the wrong duty rate, delay customs clearance, or result in a penalty in serious cases. When unsure, check your country's customs tariff schedule or ask your freight forwarder rather than guessing.
Do I need a commercial invoice for every international shipment?
Yes — nearly all customs authorities require a commercial invoice to clear goods crossing a border, regardless of shipment value, though some couriers combine it with a simplified customs declaration for low-value parcels.
Can I use this template for both air and ocean freight?
Yes, the commercial invoice format itself doesn't change by shipping method — air and ocean freight both require the same customs documentation, though ocean shipments typically also need a separate bill of lading.