Invoicing

Invoicing in foreign trade refers to the seller issuing a Commercial Invoice to the buyer before or after shipment of goods. It is not only a payment voucher but also a core document for customs declaration, customs clearance, settlement, and tax processing. Usage scenarios include: document presentation under a letter of credit, payment follow-up after T/T payment, documentary collection, open account sales, etc. Precautions: The invoice content must strictly match the contract, packing list, and bill of lading, including product name, quantity, unit price, total price, trade terms (such as FOB, CIF), payment method, etc.; the amount and currency must be accurate, avoiding spelling errors; under a letter of credit, it must strictly comply with the L/C terms, otherwise payment may be refused. Differences from other terms: Invoicing is not equal to payment; it is only confirmation of a debt; unlike a Proforma Invoice, a Commercial Invoice is a formal settlement document; unlike a Packing List, which focuses on cargo details, an invoice focuses on amounts and transaction conditions. In addition, the invoice date affects the document presentation period and tax refund declaration, so it must be handled carefully.