What Should I Include in an International Shipment Invoice?

If you're sending goods across borders, a regular invoice won’t cut it. You’ll need a commercial invoice that meets international shipping and customs standards.

📦 What Is an International Shipment Invoice?

An international invoice (also called a commercial invoice) is a legal export document used by customs authorities in both the exporting and importing countries. It provides detailed information about the shipped items, their origin, and value.

✅ Required Fields in an International Invoice

1. Exporter and Importer Information

Full business name, address, country, email, and phone number for both sender and recipient.

2. Invoice Number and Date

A unique reference number and issue date of the invoice.

3. Description of Goods

Include product name, quantity, unit price, total value, and weight or volume. Use HS codes (Harmonized System codes) for classification.

4. Country of Origin and Destination

This tells customs where the goods were produced and where they are going.

5. Currency and Total Invoice Value

State the currency (e.g., USD, EUR) and the total commercial value of the shipment.

6. Incoterms and Payment Terms

Incoterms (e.g., FOB, CIF) define delivery responsibility. Also mention when and how payment is expected.

7. Signature and Declaration

Add an authorized signature and a declaration that the information is true and correct.

🎯 Optional But Useful Fields

• Buyer’s PO or Reference Number

• Tax ID / VAT Numbers

• Insurance or freight cost breakdown

• Contact person for customs clarification

🧠 Generate International Invoices Instantly

You don’t need to design invoices manually anymore. With the Free Invoice Generator, you can auto-fill required shipping and customs fields and export a PDF invoice instantly — no signup needed.

Need to issue a refund or correction? Use our Credit Note Generator to create compliant credit memos for international or domestic clients.

If you’re sending invoices ahead of payment or dispatch, our Proforma Invoice Generator helps you generate an official preliminary document before shipping.

✅ Final Checklist for Compliance

• ✔️ Exporter/Importer Info

• ✔️ Product Descriptions + HS Code

• ✔️ Invoice Number & Date

• ✔️ Currency, Totals, & Declaration

• ✔️ Signature & Terms

Start exporting professionally — and ensure your documents are accepted by customs every time.

📄 Explore all tools:
Free Document Maker — AI-Powered Invoice & Document Tools