Commercial invoice
The supplier’s commercial invoice: exact description of the goods, codes, prices and Incoterms — the basis for the customs value.
Definition
The commercial invoice is the supplier’s bill: an exact description of the goods, codes, prices and Incoterms delivery terms. It is the basis for calculating the customs value.
The main mistakes are vague descriptions (“goods”, “spare parts”) and an understated value: both hold up the cargo and lead to additional charges for your Russian customer.
How it works in practice
The invoice is the key document for customs and currency control: it determines the customs value, and the bank matches payments with deliveries. Tranzit3 checks your invoice before shipment: seller and buyer details, contract number, Incoterms delivery terms, description of each line with its HS code, quantity, price and currency, net and gross weight, and country of origin.
Discrepancies between the invoice, the packing list and what is actually found at examination are a typical cause of adjustments and fines.
Commercial invoice: frequently asked questions
How does a proforma invoice differ from a commercial invoice?
A proforma is a preliminary bill for paying an advance and agreeing terms; goods are not shipped against it. The commercial invoice accompanies the goods and is the basis for the customs value — it is the one needed for the declaration.
What if the invoice shows less than was actually paid?
It must be corrected before shipment. An understated value on the invoice is false declaration: customs compare prices with databases and payments, and the difference leads to additional charges and administrative liability.
What language should the invoice be in?
Any language is acceptable, but Russian customs will need a Russian translation — at Tranzit3 the customs representative produces it. It is easier to issue a bilingual invoice from the start: English plus Russian.
Related terms and services
More in this section
Request a quote
Reply within 2 business hours