Proforma invoice
A proforma invoice is a preliminary document that presents expected transaction details before the final commercial invoice is issued. It can support approval, advance-payment, customs or purchasing processes, but it is generally not the final tax invoice or accounting demand for payment. Its legal and tax treatment depends on the transaction and jurisdiction.
Why this matters when you invoice
A proforma invoice can show a buyer what the final transaction is expected to contain while keeping it clearly separate from the final commercial invoice.
Where it appears in the workflow
It should be prominently labelled “Proforma invoice,” include expected seller, buyer, goods or services, prices and terms, and state that it is not the final invoice where that distinction applies.
Proforma invoice example
An exporter sends a proforma invoice listing goods, expected value, shipping terms and buyer details so the buyer can arrange approval. After shipment, the exporter issues the final commercial invoice.
Common mistakes
- Presenting a proforma as a final tax invoice.
- Using it without checking customs or jurisdiction-specific requirements.
- Offering a proforma creation workflow that the product does not actually support.
Use the right document
InvoiceCraftly currently supports invoices, quotes, estimates, receipts and credit notes. It does not currently offer a dedicated proforma document type.
This page explains common document usage. Your agreement and applicable local rules determine what applies to a transaction.
Frequently asked questions
Is a proforma invoice the same as a quote?
They overlap, but a proforma often mirrors the expected final invoice more closely and may be used in purchasing, advance-payment or customs workflows.
Can I create a proforma invoice in InvoiceCraftly?
InvoiceCraftly does not currently provide a dedicated proforma document type. You can review the supported document types and choose a quote or invoice only when it matches your actual workflow.