Free Proforma Invoice Generator – Pre-Shipment & Customs
Create professional proforma invoices online for free. Ideal for international trade, customs declarations, and advance payments. Download instant PDF without registration.
How to Create a Proforma Invoice Step-by-Step
Add Exporter & Importer Details
Include full commercial names, registration addresses, contact information, and tax identification numbers.
Itemize Goods with Clear Specifications
Detail product specifications, unit prices, harmonized system (HS) codes, packaging, weight, and delivery terms (Incoterms).
Download Proforma PDF for Customs Clearance
Generate your official proforma invoice PDF to submit for advance payments, letters of credit, or customs clearance.
Proforma Invoice vs Commercial Invoice: Key Differences
Using the correct invoice format prevents customs seizures and delays in cross-border commerce.
Proforma Invoice
Preliminary Commercial Estimate
- Sent prior to delivery or manufacturing to declare expected costs.
- Used to secure import permits, financing, or advance payment via Letter of Credit.
- Not recorded in official accounting ledgers as a true tax liability.
Commercial Invoice
Final Legal Demand for Payment
- Issued after goods are ready or shipped.
- The legal document used by customs authorities to assess duties and taxes.
- Recorded directly in financial accounts as an account receivable.
Purchase Order (PO)
Buyer's Formal Order
- Created by the buyer to authorize purchase from the supplier.
- Triggers the creation of the proforma or commercial invoice.
- Legally binding agreement to purchase under specified terms.
Essential Fields for Proforma Invoices in Trade
Avoid shipping delays by providing complete commercial shipping information.
Header Marked 'PROFORMA INVOICE'
Must clearly state 'PROFORMA INVOICE' so customs and accountants recognize it as a preliminary estimate.
Validity Period & Delivery Terms
Specify Incoterms (e.g. FOB, CIF, EXW), expected shipping dates, and quote validity period.
Country of Origin & Currency
Indicate where products were manufactured and agreed transaction currency.
Banking & Letter of Credit Instructions
Provide full international SWIFT/BIC codes and beneficiary bank instructions for wire payment.
Complete Your Document Workflow
Seamlessly switch between estimates, quotations, invoices, and receipts. All 100% free with instant PDF download.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about creating, customizing, and downloading documents on InvoiceWisely.
What is a proforma invoice?+
A proforma invoice is a preliminary bill of sale sent to buyers prior to the shipment or delivery of goods. It describes the purchased items, quantities, values, shipping weights, and transport costs to facilitate customs clearance and financing.
Is a proforma invoice legally binding?+
No. A proforma invoice is not a legally binding tax invoice. It serves as a good-faith commitment detailing what the final commercial invoice will look like upon fulfillment.
Why do customs authorities require a proforma invoice?+
Customs agents review proforma invoices to determine applicable import duties, taxes, and tariffs before the cargo arrives at the port of entry.