We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Accounting

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What is a Pro Forma Invoice?

Autumn Rivers
By
Updated: May 16, 2024
Views: 16,948
Share

In Latin, pro forma means "as a matter of form." The term is used in various industries, and anytime goods or services are sold, a pro forma invoice may be used. Since it is presented before the actual sale takes place, it is not considered the official invoice. Rather, it is often used as an agreement between a buyer and seller, in which the buyer agrees to purchase an item or service from the seller for a specified price. The information on this type of invoice is typically the same as on the commercial invoice after the transaction is confirmed, though occasionally some details may change.

A typical standard invoice usually includes the date, name, and contact information of both the buyer and seller. It also breaks down the price per unit of the item or service being sold, as well as a description of each, and the total price. Additional relevant details, such as the method of payment and the date the item or service will be delivered, are also often on the commercial invoice. A pro forma invoice typically includes all of this information, though in some cases, the price may change before the transaction is completed. Some businesses only offer a more general form at first, in which case the actual details of the sale are only filled out after it has occurred.

Not everyone chooses to use a pro forma invoice, but it is often recommended before the sale is complete, so as to prevent misunderstandings. It is usually considered more desirable than a quote since so many details are included. Not only is the price on the form, but other pertinent details, such as delivery date and payment terms, are spelled out so that there are no surprises on either side. Many people that are buying a large amount of products at once, or perhaps need financing, request to see a pro forma invoice before the official transaction.

Though a pro forma invoice is rarely considered official, it is sometimes accepted when there are no standard commercial invoices available. Sometimes it is issued in order to get advance payment before a service is completed or a product is shipped. In any case, it is not typically issued until the majority of the transaction details are known and agreed upon by both parties. In general, nothing is recorded in either accounts payable or receivable until the official commercial invoice is developed.

Share
SmartCapitalMind is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Autumn Rivers
By Autumn Rivers
Autumn Rivers, a talented writer for SmartCapitalMind, holds a B.A. in Journalism from Arizona State University. Her background in journalism helps her create well-researched and engaging content, providing readers with valuable insights and information on a variety of subjects.
Discussion Comments
By livlife40 — On Jun 15, 2011

Using a pro forma invoice is good business. I've used them many times when someone comes into the dealership interested in buying a car and leaves to think about it. It definitely helps cut down on confusion about quoted prices and eliminates "he said, she said" situations.

Autumn Rivers
Autumn Rivers
Autumn Rivers, a talented writer for SmartCapitalMind, holds a B.A. in Journalism from Arizona State University. Her background in journalism helps her create well-researched and engaging content, providing readers with valuable insights and information on a variety of subjects.
Share
https://www.smartcapitalmind.com/what-is-a-pro-forma-invoice.htm
Copy this link
SmartCapitalMind, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

SmartCapitalMind, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.