Make an export invoice with H.S. Codes
The classification codes customs will ask for, on the invoice from the start.
An invoice that crosses a border is read by customs as well as by the customer, and the first thing they look for is the H.S. Code against each item. Missing codes mean delay at the worst possible moment. This puts an H.S. Code column on every line, lets you zero rate the supply as exports normally are, and writes the total out in words, which many customs forms expect.
How to make an export invoice
- 1
Turn on the H.S. Code column
Choose Nepal or India, which show the code column by default, and enter the classification against each item.
- 2
Set the tax treatment
Exports are commonly zero rated rather than exempt. Set the rate to zero and state the treatment on the invoice.
- 3
Add the shipping details and download
Put the consignee, the destination and any order reference in the fields provided, then download the PDF.
Why the code belongs on the invoice
The invoice is the document that travels with the goods and the one customs reads first. A classification code written on it at the start prevents a phone call from a warehouse in another country.
Frequently asked questions
Where do I find the H.S. Code?+
From your customs tariff, or from your freight forwarder, who deals with the classification daily. Guessing at it is how consignments get held.
Is an export invoice the same as a commercial invoice?+
In practice, yes: the document declaring what is being shipped, to whom, and at what value. Some destinations want extra declarations, which your forwarder will tell you about.
Zero rated or exempt?+
They are different. Zero rated is taxable at nil, which keeps your input tax recoverable; exempt does not. Exports are usually zero rated, but confirm for your goods.
Is the shipment data uploaded?+
No. Everything stays in your browser.