Commercial Invoice (CI) in foreign trade

Commercial Invoice (CI) is the foundation of all other documents and the first International shipping document that should be completed. The information provided on other international shipping documents, including the Bill of Lading or shipping label, must correspond with the Commercial Invoice (CI). 

Commercial invoice is the primary document used by most foreign customs agencies for import control valuation and duty determination.

A Commercial Invoice is a form identifying the Seller and Buyer of goods or Services, shipping date mode of transport, order for entry, delivery and payment terms, and a complete listing and description of the goods or services sold including, quantities, prices, discount. The Commercial Invoice is considered the most important document in International trade, because goods are not allowed to clear customs and the destination without one. It even applies if the goods are samples and have no commercial value.

This document is usually the one that all the service providers first look to for information about your shipment. It’s important to prepare the commercial invoice as clearly and accurately as possible to avoid problems with your shipment. The Commercial Invoice is a Customs requirement, not a transportation requirement. When someone is engage in International trade Customs requires a Commercial Invoice form. You will need two copies of the Commercial Invoice. One must accompany the freight from the point of pick up to the point of customs clearance, the other should be attached to the Bill of Lading.

On the website of the Canada Border Service Agency (CBSA) you can download a blank version of Canada Customs Invoice and also detailed Canada Customs Invoice requirements. 

And remember, ONLY Importer or Exporter is fully responsible for Information provided in the Commercial Invoice. If any issues, Importer or Exporter are the ones who must pay all penalties and charges.