Guide
Invoice vs GST invoice vs commercial invoice
These documents look similar but serve different jobs. Pick the right one so clients, tax records, and shippers get what they expect.
1. Standard invoice (bill for payment)
Use when you sell goods or services and need the buyer to pay. Typical fields: seller, client, line items, tax %, due date, bank details. Works worldwide with USD, INR, EUR, and other currencies.
Free invoice generator →2. Sales tax / GST tax invoice
Use when you need a clearer tax layout. In the US, a sales tax invoice shows a single tax % and tax IDs. In India, a GST invoice often needs GSTIN, HSN/SAC, and CGST/SGST or IGST splits. Billvale supports both modes on one tool.
Free sales tax / GST invoice generator →3. Commercial invoice (shipping / customs)
Use for international shipments. Carriers and customs care about exporter, consignee, country of origin, destination, goods description, HS codes, Incoterms, and total value — not just “please pay.”
Free commercial invoice generator →Quick chooser
- Client owes you money → Invoice
- Need tax ID / GST splits → Sales tax / GST invoice
- Parcel crossing a border → Commercial invoice
Billvale creates helper PDFs for records. Confirm local tax or customs rules with your advisor when required.