Attaching an invoice to your shipment is a great way to help ensure it smoothly transits to its destination. Your invoice provides a verification of the shipment’s contents and retail value. It's the reason why we recommend providing one whenever you can.
Since certain types of shipments will often receive more scrutiny from customs, Chit Chats or a customs official may request an invoice from you in order to keep your shipment moving.
In the event that Chit Chats, U.S. Customs, or any other customs official requests an invoice, you are responsible for providing one in a timely manner. The best practice is to include an invoice with all of your shipments to help facilitate quick transit through customs checkpoints.
We also encourage you to provide an authentic sales invoice for your shipments where possible.
Below are a few common examples of when you’ll want to ensure you’ve included an invoice for your shipment ahead of time.
Shipments with a retail value of $300 USD or greater
Higher value shipments may need to have their retail values verified at the U.S. border more frequently.
Items with a market value that is difficult to verify
Collectibles (ex. trading cards, comics, coins, etc.), vintage items or items where the market value may otherwise be difficult to determine will require an invoice for U.S. Customs verification.
This would also include items that have a broad range market value, or a value which fluctuates frequently.
We are unable to accommodate shipments sent for the purpose of valuation such as the grading of sports cards or other collectibles.
Shipments to Amazon Fulfillment Centres
Shipments destined for Amazon Fulfillment centres must include a commercial invoice listing the retail value of all items.
Gifts
A record of the purchase or transaction, such as an original sales receipt would be accepted in the place of an invoice to confirm the value of the shipment.
As per U.S. Customs the maximum value for gifts, donations and documents entering the United States tax and duty free is USD $100.
The best practice is to include an invoice with all of your shipments to help facilitate quick transit through customs checkpoints. We also encourage you to provide an authentic sales invoice.