Customs-Ready Commercial Invoice

What a good one includes

• Full contact information, tax identification numbers, and registration details for both the shipper and the consignee.
• A highly specific description of each item, detailing what it is made of and its intended use rather than just a generic part number.
• The correct six-to-ten-digit Harmonized System (HS) code for every product line to ensure accurate tariff classification.
• The exact Country of Origin for each product, which determines eligibility for preferential trade agreements and duty rates.
• A clearly defined Incoterm, such as FOB or DAP, to establish exactly where the financial liability and shipping risks transfer.
• A breakdown of unit costs, total values, and the specific currency used for the transaction to prevent valuation disputes.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Using vague descriptions like 'samples' or 'goods' instead of detailing the actual item name, material, and value.
• Failing to declare the correct currency, which can cause customs agents to assess duties based on a higher-value currency by default.
• Omitting or guessing HS codes, leading to misclassification, unexpected duty rates, and extensive border inspection delays.
• Declaring a symbolic zero-dollar value for promotional items rather than their fair market value, which flags the shipment for fraudulent valuation.

Frequently asked questions