How to fill in a commercial invoice

If you’re shipping goods internationally, you’ll need a commercial invoice. It provides key information for customs like the reason for export, HS code, Incoterms® and more. We’ll show you how to fill it in correctly with the right information.

» Find out more about this topic: theshippingchannel.com/rules-and-regulations/cu…

» Want to learn more about shipping? Explore The Shipping Channel: theshippingchannel.com/

Time code

00:25 Fill in the shipping number (also known as air waybill)
00:30 State the reason for export
00:37 State the correct Incoterm®
00:50 Provide a detailed goods description
01:18 State the HS code
1:32 Declare the value of your goods

► What’s the difference between a commercial invoice and air waybill?
While both documents provide important information for the customs authorities and are needed for international shipments, an air waybill also acts as a contract between the sender and receiver and is used to track the shipment.

Find out more about air waybill:
theshippingchannel.com/rules-and-regulations/cu…

► Why do I need to include the Incoterms®?
They help avoid misunderstandings between the sender and receiver regarding shipping costs – like finding out the sender didn’t insure the goods or having to pay the shipping costs when they arrive.

Find out more about Incoterms®:
theshippingchannel.com/rules-and-regulations/cu…

► Why do I need to include the HS code?
It’s used by customs to classify a product. That way the duties and taxes can be calculated accurately and they can apply any necessary restrictions.

Find out more about HS codes:
theshippingchannel.com/rules-and-regulations/cu…

► Why do I need to declare the value of my goods?
Customs use it to clear your goods and determine the duties and taxes.

Find out more about declaring the value of your goods:
theshippingchannel.com/rules-and-regulations/cu…