Commercial Invoice Generator
Prepare the commercial invoice customs needs for an international shipment. Enter the shipper and consignee, the goods with HS codes, origin, quantities, weights and values, the Incoterm and reason for export, and sign the declaration. The invoice and totals update live, and the PDF is made in your browser.
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How to use the Commercial Invoice Generator
- Enter the shipper and consignee with tax IDs, and the importer of record if it is a different party.
- Add the shipment details: invoice number, reason for export, Incoterm, carrier, tracking number, countries and ports.
- List every product with a full description, HS code, origin, quantity, net weight per unit and unit value.
- Fill in packages, gross weight and charges, and check the warnings below the totals.
- Review the declaration, add the signer, then download the PDF and print copies for the shipment.
Commercial invoice vs proforma invoice vs packing list
| Document | When | Purpose | Shows prices? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Proforma invoice | Before shipment | Quotation, advance payment, import license or letter of credit | Yes, estimated |
| Commercial invoice | At shipment | Customs clearance, duty calculation and the final bill | Yes, actual |
| Packing list | At shipment | What is in each package, with weights and dimensions | Usually no |
Common reasons customs holds a shipment
- Vague descriptions such as "parts", "gifts" or "samples". Say what the item is, what it is made of and what it is used for.
- Missing or wrong HS codes. A wrong code can mean the wrong duty rate or extra checks.
- Undervalued goods. Declare the real transaction value, or fair market value for gifts and samples.
- Weights that do not match the carrier's records or gross weight lower than net weight.
- Missing tax IDs for the importer, such as an EORI number for the EU or a business number for Canada.
How the totals are calculated
- Line value = quantity × unit value; line net weight = quantity × net weight per unit.
- Total value of goods = sum of line values. Total invoice value = goods + freight + insurance + other charges.
- Whether freight and insurance are part of the customs value depends on the importing country: many use the CIF value, while the United States generally values goods excluding international freight and insurance. Listing them separately lets customs apply its own rule.
Frequently asked questions
What is a commercial invoice?
A commercial invoice is the main document customs authorities use to clear an international shipment. It describes the goods, their value, origin and HS classification, the parties, and the terms of sale. Customs uses it to calculate duties and taxes, and it also serves as the seller's bill to the buyer.
What must a commercial invoice include?
Typically: shipper and consignee names and addresses, invoice number and date, a full description of each item, HS code, country of origin, quantity, unit and total value, currency, Incoterm, reason for export, number of packages, net and gross weight, and a signed declaration that the information is true. Requirements vary by country.
How many copies of a commercial invoice do I need?
Carriers commonly ask for three signed copies with an express or courier shipment: one attached to the package and others for customs at export and import. Check your carrier's instructions, as many now accept electronic invoices.
What is the difference between net weight and gross weight?
Net weight is the weight of the goods themselves, without packaging. Gross weight is the total weight of the shipment including boxes, pallets and packing material. Gross weight should always be equal to or greater than net weight.
Do I need a commercial invoice for a gift or sample?
Yes. Shipments without a sale still need a commercial (sometimes called proforma) invoice that shows a fair market value for customs. Select Gift or Sample as the reason for export and enter a realistic value; a value of zero is usually not accepted.
Where do I find the HS code for my product?
Search your country's tariff schedule, such as the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) or the Schedule B search for US exports, or the EU TARIC database. The first six digits are the same worldwide; extra digits are country specific.
Is my information uploaded?
No. The invoice and PDF are generated in your browser and nothing is sent to a server. Your draft and logo are saved only in this browser's local storage.
Are all the tools on FreeToolCabin tested for quality and accuracy?
Yes! Every tool on our site undergoes automated Q/A testing in real browser environments to ensure high precision, correct output, and zero errors. If you happen to spot a bug or have a suggestion, please contact us at [email protected] and our team will review it right away.
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