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Commercial Invoice
I need a commercial invoice for exporting electronic goods from Singapore to Malaysia, detailing item descriptions, quantities, unit prices, total value, and including both the buyer's and seller's information, as well as the terms of sale and delivery. The invoice should comply with international trade regulations and include the necessary customs declarations.
What is a Commercial Invoice?
A Commercial Invoice acts as the official bill of sale for international trade, telling Singapore Customs exactly what goods are being bought or sold across borders. It lists essential details like product descriptions, quantities, prices, and terms of sale that both buyers and sellers rely on.
Beyond just being a bill, this document plays a crucial role in clearing customs, calculating duties, and proving ownership of goods. Singapore law requires exporters to include specific information like HS codes, country of origin, and GST registration numbers. Banks also use Commercial Invoices when processing letters of credit or trade financing.
When should you use a Commercial Invoice?
Use a Commercial Invoice whenever you're moving goods in or out of Singapore for business purposes. This includes selling products to overseas buyers, importing materials for manufacturing, or sending samples to international trade shows. Singapore Customs requires this document for every shipment crossing the border.
Companies need Commercial Invoices when applying for trade financing, documenting GST claims, or proving ownership during disputes. The document becomes especially important for controlled goods requiring special permits, high-value shipments needing insurance coverage, and transactions involving letters of credit where banks demand detailed documentation.
What are the different types of Commercial Invoice?
- Proforma Invoice For International Shipping: Used before finalizing sales to quote prices and secure buyer commitment
- Packing List And Commercial Invoice: Combines shipping details with payment information for comprehensive documentation
- Commercial Invoice For Shipping: Standard format focusing on transport logistics and carrier requirements
- Invoice For Customs Purposes Only: Specialized version for customs declaration without actual sale
- Custom Invoice For Export: Detailed format meeting specific export documentation requirements
Who should typically use a Commercial Invoice?
- Exporters: Create and issue Commercial Invoices when selling goods internationally, ensuring accuracy of prices, quantities, and shipping details
- Customs Officials: Review invoices to assess duties, verify compliance with trade regulations, and clear shipments at Singapore's ports
- Freight Forwarders: Handle documentation for clients, coordinate with customs, and manage shipping logistics
- Banks: Process trade financing and letters of credit based on invoice details
- Import/Export Companies: Use invoices for inventory tracking, payment processing, and maintaining trade records
- Accountants: Manage GST claims, record transactions, and ensure compliance with tax regulations
How do you write a Commercial Invoice?
- Basic Details: Gather company information, GST numbers, and complete shipping addresses for both parties
- Product Information: List exact descriptions, HS codes, quantities, unit prices, and total values for all items
- Trade Terms: Specify Incoterms, payment terms, currency, and delivery conditions
- Compliance Details: Note country of origin, export permits, and any special licenses required
- Documentation: Prepare supporting documents like packing lists and certificates of origin
- Review Process: Double-check all calculations, verify HS codes, and ensure alignment with purchase orders
- Digital Platform: Use our template system to generate a legally compliant Commercial Invoice tailored to Singapore requirements
What should be included in a Commercial Invoice?
- Header Information: Invoice number, date, and both parties' complete business details including GST registration numbers
- Product Details: Clear descriptions, HS codes, quantities, unit prices in Singapore dollars or stated currency
- Trade Terms: Incoterms version and rule, payment terms, and delivery conditions
- Legal Declarations: Country of origin, export control statements, and customs declarations
- Value Statement: Total invoice value, currency exchange rates if applicable, and freight charges
- Certification: Authorized signature, company stamp, and declaration of accuracy
- Compliance Note: Our platform automatically includes all these required elements in every Commercial Invoice template
What's the difference between a Commercial Invoice and an Invoice Form?
While Commercial Invoices and Invoice Forms might seem similar, they serve distinctly different purposes in Singapore's business landscape. Commercial Invoices are specifically designed for international trade, while Invoice Forms typically handle domestic transactions.
- Documentation Requirements: Commercial Invoices must include customs-specific information like HS codes, country of origin, and export permits. Standard Invoice Forms focus on basic transaction details only.
- Legal Purpose: Commercial Invoices serve as customs declarations and proof of value for import duties. Invoice Forms primarily document local sales for GST and accounting.
- Content Structure: Commercial Invoices require detailed product descriptions, shipping terms, and trade compliance statements. Invoice Forms can be simpler, focusing on price and payment terms.
- Regulatory Oversight: Commercial Invoices fall under Singapore Customs scrutiny and international trade laws. Invoice Forms mainly concern IRAS requirements and local business regulations.
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