Commercial invoice

Why it matters

The invoice value is what Indian customs records on the shipping bill and what your bank matches against the money that comes in. The buyer's customs charges duty on it. One wrong figure here can hold a container or delay your payment.

What goes on it

• Exporter name, address, IEC and GSTIN
• Buyer (consignee) name and address
• Invoice number and date, buyer's order reference
• Description of goods, HS code, quantity, unit price and total
• Incoterm and named place (for example FOB Nhava Sheva)
• Currency, payment terms, port of loading and destination
• Country of origin, marks and numbers on packages

Avoid these mistakes

• Use the same description, quantity and value on the invoice, packing list, shipping bill and certificate of origin. Mismatches are the commonest reason a buyer's bank refuses LC documents.
• If you ship under LC, copy the goods description word for word from the LC.
• Ask the buyer how many signed originals their customs needs before you print.