How to Fill Out a Commercial Invoice (Without Customs Delays)

Commercial invoices cause more customs delays than any other shipping document. A correctly completed commercial invoice ensures your shipment clears quickly and the recipient pays the right amount in duties and taxes.

Required Fields on a Commercial Invoice

Shipper and recipient details: Full name, address, phone, and email for both parties
Item description: What it actually is — for example "100% cotton men's t-shirt", not just "shirt"
HS code: The Harmonized System classification code for each item
Quantity and weight: Per item and total
Declared value: Accurate fair market value in USD — never undervalue
Country of origin: Where the goods were manufactured
Reason for export: Sale, gift, personal effects, repair, etc.