News

What types of shipments require a commercial invoice?

The only shipments that cross an international border and do not need a commercial invoice are those that contain documents. If your shipment includes any goods or merchandise, a commercial invoice is mandatory. If you ship without one, your shipment will likely be held at customs until it’s provided.

How to complete a Commercial Invoice in FlagShip’s online shipping system

Once you enter an international destination in the Receiver section of your new shipment, you’ll be prompted to complete the Commercial Invoice page. This page contains three main sections:

A – Sold To (Importer of Record)

This section identifies the Importer of Record (IOR) — the person or business responsible for ensuring the shipment complies with import regulations in the destination country. By default, the receiver’s information appears here, but if the receiver is not the IOR (for example, an Amazon fulfillment warehouse, hotel, or third-party logistics center), you’ll need to manually update this section.

You must also indicate:

• Who is paying duties and taxes (shipper, receiver, or third party)
• The reason for export (permanent, temporary, return, gift, or sample)

Important notes:

• Document Upload Feature: After confirming your shipment and generating the label, you’ll see an “Upload Documents” box. Use it to upload your commercial invoice, CUSMA form, or other required documents.
• Delays and Fees: Skipping this upload step may cause customs delays or added courier fees (especially with UPS).
• Duties and Taxes: If the shipper pays, note that FlagShip is not a licensed customs broker. The shipper is responsible for all related charges and must pay the invoice directly. Any disputes must be filed with U.S. Customs, often with the IOR’s assistance.
• Own Broker: Using your own broker for an express shipment may incur broker-select fees and may require a Letter of Authorization (LOA).
• Verify IOR: Always confirm that your receiver (hotel, fulfillment warehouse, trade show, etc.) is willing to act as the IOR and can provide their Tax ID.

CUSMA Compliance

CUSMA stands for the Canada–United States–Mexico Agreement. It allows qualifying goods to move duty-free among the three countries. As of August 29, products manufactured or produced in Canada should include a CUSMA form regardless of value to avoid tariffs. Upload your completed CUSMA and commercial invoice using the “Upload Documents” feature once your shipment is confirmed.

B – Inquiry (Shipper / Exporter Information)

This section identifies who customs officials can contact if they have questions about your shipment. You’ll also select your customs broker here.

• If you have your own customs broker, select them from the list. If they aren’t listed, contact FlagShip Customer Service to have them added.
• Broker Location: The broker must be located in the importing country.
• If you don’t have a broker, you can select your courier (e.g., Purolator, UPS, FedEx, DHL, Canpar, or GLS) to handle customs clearance.
• The only time you absolutely need to select a broker is when importing into Canada.

C – Items Included in the Commercial Invoice

This section lists every item being shipped across the border. Each product must be entered individually with the following fields:

• Currency: CAD or USD
• Name: The product name
• Description: A detailed description of each product
• HS Code: The Harmonized System (HS) Code — an international classification code used for customs. If you don’t know your HS code, search for it here.
• Origin: The country where the product was made
• Qty: Number of items
• Price: Selling price of the items
• Weight: Weight of each item
• Unit: How the item is measured

Once all details are complete, click Add Product to add the item to your commercial invoice list.

What documents do I need to include with my shipment?

For FedEx and DHL shipments, the commercial invoice is automatically submitted electronically through FlagShip’s system — you no longer need to print and attach copies.

For UPS shipments, your commercial invoice is also generated automatically through the system. You no longer need to print and attach three signed copies. Simply follow the instructions in your shipment confirmation or upload your documents through the system’s “Upload Documents” feature.

Skipping this step may result in customs delays or additional courier fees.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What happens if I forget to upload my CUSMA or commercial invoice?

Your shipment may face customs delays or incur extra courier charges. Always upload your CUSMA and commercial invoice documents after confirming your shipment.

Can I use my own customs broker?

Yes. Select your broker from the list or contact FlagShip to have them added. If you prefer, you can let your courier clear the shipment on your behalf.

What is an Importer of Record (IOR)?

The Importer of Record is the person or company responsible for ensuring the shipment complies with import laws, paying duties, and handling customs paperwork.

Is a CUSMA form required for every U.S. shipment?

Yes. For items made in Canada and shipped to the U.S. or Mexico, including low-value shipments, a CUSMA form helps you avoid tariffs and clearance delays.

Do I still need to print invoices for UPS shipments?

No. UPS invoices are now automatically generated electronically in the FlagShip system. You no longer need to print and attach three signed copies.

Please note: The information provided above is for general guidance only. For detailed customs requirements, contact your customs broker or our FlagShip Customer Relations team.

Stay connected with us for more shipping tips, updates, and support:

• Follow us on Instagram
• Like us on Facebook
• Connect with us on LinkedIn