
The details are related to product type, quality, quantity, product price, and shipment charges. The ownership information should be properly mentioned on the invoice. It should cover the accurate details of the shipper, carrier, and receiver. The clarity in details makes it easy for the receiver to contact the seller in case of any query. It can be anyone such as a bank or the consignee (buyer/importer), giving them the right to receive the goods.
Bank Details
- An accurate packing list is critical for ensuring smooth customs clearance since it helps verify cargo details against the manifest and invoice.
- A shipping invoice is received by the customer when he or she receives a shipment.
- Start by clearly listing the shipper’s and consignee’s details, such as name, address, and contact information.
- This section states that both sellers and buyers have agreed on the payment terms.
- Usually, before the start of the shipping process, both the shipping firm and the customer sign this invoice where specific and general terms and conditions are mentioned.
- If the details change after the shipment, make sure to update the invoice accordingly.
The ZIP code determines the surcharge, which is distinct for each carrier. It is the most common type of invoice format used by small businesses. You must, for example, identify whether the consignment contains any hazardous chemicals. To calculate taxes and fees on your items and clear them through customs, you’ll need all of this information.

Create Professional Shipping Invoices with InvoiceOwl
Discrepancies between the commercial invoice and packing list can lead to customs officers flagging the shipment for inspection. A shipping invoice describes the items being sent (shipped) from one person or business to another and the applied charges for the service. QuickBooks The BOL provides the necessary details for a carrier to schedule pick-up and delivery of the goods to the customer.
Customise your Invoice Template

To avoid fraud, every enterprise must have an internal controls system. It simply means that it prevents one person from holding too much authority within an organization. Jason Ding Retained Earnings on Balance Sheet is a seasoned accountant with over 15 years of progressive experience in senior finance and accounting across multiple industries.

Payment
Once the shipping invoice is created, the next step is to handle and store it properly. Since shipping invoices and bills of lading are legal documents, it’s crucial to manage them correctly to avoid potential issues in the future. Here are a few tips for organizing shipping invoice and storing your shipping documents. For smaller businesses, templates offer an easy, cost-effective solution that can be customized based on the type of business or for specific customers.
- Because it’s a legal document, the bill of lading also serves as a binding contract between the freight carrier and the shipper.
- Most buyers keep a close eye on their deliveries—many even obsessively.
- The word lading refers to the process of loading a ship with cargo.
- Since 2011, Jayanti’s expertise has helped thousands of businesses, from small startups to large enterprises, streamline invoicing, estimation, and accounting operations.
- Having a clearly defined and easily accessible return policy can help reduce customer service questions and improve client relations.
- To accomplish this, you need to create a thorough shipping invoice — a document that relays vital order details.
Clearly write the delivery method, expected delivery date, and payment terms. Make sure these terms are agreed upon by both parties to avoid disputes later. It is also useful when changes need to be made to an existing bill.