Commercial Invoice
A commercial invoice is the seller's bill to the buyer for the goods. Customs uses it to see what the goods are and how much they cost.
In plain words
The commercial invoice shows the seller and the buyer, a clear description of the goods, the quantity, the unit price and total value, the currency, the Incoterms rule (for example FOB or CIF), and the payment terms. It often also shows the HS code and the country of origin.
Customs uses the invoice to check the goods and to calculate duties and taxes. The details must match the other documents, like the packing list and the Bill of Lading. Vague descriptions (such as only “parts”) or values that look wrong can lead to questions, checks, and delays.
Example from real shipping
An exporter sells 500 cotton towels to a buyer in Germany on FCA Istanbul terms. The invoice lists “500 pcs 100% cotton bath towels, 70×140 cm”, the unit price, the total in euros, the HS code, and “Origin: Turkey”. German customs uses these details to calculate the import duty and VAT.
Related terms
- Packing ListA packing list shows how the goods are packed: the number of packages, what is in each one, and their weights and sizes.
- HS CodeAn HS code is a number that classifies a product for customs. It decides which duty rate and which rules apply to the goods.
- Landed costLanded cost is the total cost of getting a product to your door: the price of the goods plus freight, insurance, duties, taxes, and all other fees on the way.
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Request a QuoteThis glossary is general information, not legal or customs advice. Rules, fees, and practice can differ by carrier, port, and country.