Proforma Invoice Template Uk
Proforma Invoice Template: A UK Guide
A proforma invoice is a preliminary bill of sale used to request payment from a buyer for goods or services before they are actually delivered. In the UK, as elsewhere, it acts as a commitment from the seller to provide the specified goods or services at the stated price. It is not a true invoice and should never be used for accounting purposes, VAT returns, or as a demand for immediate payment.
Why Use a Proforma Invoice in the UK?
Proforma invoices are valuable in several situations within the UK business context:
- Import/Export: For international transactions, it can be required for customs clearance, allowing the buyer to arrange import licenses or permits and calculate duties and taxes.
- Price Confirmation: Provides the buyer with a firm price quote, preventing misunderstandings later. This is particularly useful for bespoke items or projects where the final cost may be uncertain initially.
- Securing Orders: It serves as a sales agreement, solidifying the buyer’s commitment to purchase.
- Prepayment: It allows the seller to request a prepayment or deposit before commencing work or shipping goods.
- Internal Approvals: Buyers may require a proforma invoice for internal budget approvals before placing a firm order.
Key Elements of a UK Proforma Invoice Template
A professional proforma invoice template for use in the UK should include the following essential information:
- “Proforma Invoice” Heading: Clearly label the document as a “Proforma Invoice” to avoid confusion with a standard sales invoice.
- Your Company Information: Include your company name, address, phone number, email address, and company registration number (if applicable).
- Client Information: Detail the client’s name, address, and contact details.
- Proforma Invoice Number: Assign a unique sequential number for tracking purposes. This should be distinct from your standard invoice numbers.
- Date of Issue: State the date the proforma invoice was generated.
- Detailed Description of Goods or Services: Provide a clear and comprehensive description of the products or services being offered, including quantities, specifications, and any relevant details.
- Unit Price: Show the price per unit for each item.
- Total Amount: Calculate the total cost for each line item and then the overall total amount due.
- Currency: Specify the currency used (typically GBP – British Pounds).
- VAT (Value Added Tax): If your business is VAT registered, clearly indicate the VAT rate and amount. If not, state that no VAT is charged. Adhere to current UK VAT regulations.
- Payment Terms: Outline the payment terms, including any prepayment requirements, accepted payment methods, and the validity period of the proforma invoice (i.e., how long the quoted price is guaranteed).
- Delivery Terms: Specify the delivery method and estimated delivery date or timeframe.
- Disclaimer: Include a disclaimer stating that the document is a proforma invoice and not a tax invoice, and that the goods/services are subject to final confirmation. A common disclaimer might read: “This is a proforma invoice for quotation purposes only. It is not a tax invoice and does not create any obligation to supply the goods or services.”
- Your Signature (Optional): Adding a digital signature can lend a more professional touch.
Using a Proforma Invoice Effectively
Remember, a proforma invoice is not a legally binding document in the same way as a purchase order or final invoice. It’s a preliminary estimate. Once the buyer accepts the terms and conditions, you’ll issue a proper sales invoice when the goods are shipped or the services are rendered. Always keep a copy of the proforma invoice for your records.