Launch offer: 75% off your first payment until December 31, 2026.

Proforma invoice template: make a free PDF

A proforma invoice is a preliminary invoice sent before goods are delivered or a final invoice is issued. It gives the buyer a formal preview of what they will be charged — often used to arrange payment, secure budget, or clear customs. This proforma invoice template mirrors a real invoice while making its preliminary status clear.

Make a proforma invoice free →

Opens the live generator. No account required, download PDF instantly. Free PDFs include a small "Made free with Invio" footer.

When to use a proforma invoice

  • A buyer needs a formal figure before you ship or deliver
  • You need a document for the buyer to arrange payment or finance
  • An international shipment needs a proforma for customs
  • You want to confirm scope and price before issuing the final invoice

What to include on a proforma invoice

  • The label "Proforma Invoice" clearly at the top
  • A reference number and the date
  • Your details and the buyer's details
  • Itemized goods or services with prices
  • The subtotal, tax, and total
  • A note that it is not a demand for payment

Can Invio make a proforma invoice?

Yes. Pick Proforma Invoice in the Document title setting. The PDF is headed Proforma Invoice and the date line reads Due, which you can leave empty. The tool adds no line saying it isn't a demand for payment, so put that in the notes or terms.

Frequently asked questions

What is a proforma invoice used for?

It is a preliminary invoice sent before delivery — to let a buyer arrange payment or financing, confirm scope, or supply a value for customs on international shipments.

Is a proforma invoice a real invoice?

No. It is a preview of the final invoice and not a record of a completed sale, so it should not be entered into accounts as a true receivable.

How is it different from a quote?

A quote is an offer to sell; a proforma invoice is formatted like the actual invoice the buyer will receive, often used once the buyer has agreed to proceed.