Standard international shipping and handling symbols should also be used. Most freight forwarders and export packing specialists can supply necessary information regarding specific regulations. As in a domestic transaction, the commercial invoice is a bill for the goods from the buyer to the seller. A commercial invoice should include basic information about the transaction, including a description of the goods, the address of the shipper and seller, and the delivery and payment terms. The buyer needs the invoice to prove ownership and to arrange payment.
Some governments use the commercial invoice to assess customs duties.
Bill of lading. There are two types. A straight bill of lading is nonnegotiable. The customer usually needs the original or a copy as proof of ownership to take possession of the goods. Certain nations require a consular invoice, which is used to control and identify goods.