International invoicing

Question

Why do some countries ask for invoices to be stamped/signed etc?

Some Middle Eastern customers, even from the same country, ask for it, and some don’t?

Answer

Hi Paul,
In our experience there can be various reasons why an invoice is required to be stamped. Sometimes there is a Customs requirement in the country of destination and sometimes there can be a requirement as part of a Letter of Credit. We also find that some exporters or consignees have always done it so always get it stamped, even though they may not know why any longer.
If you aren’t already aware you can apply for invoices to be stamped to say that the signature image is authentic using the online service e-z Cert (www.e-zcert.com) via your local Chamber of Commerce. This can either be a manual ‘wet stamp’ or electronic stamp.
Hope this is useful.
Kind regards,
Ian James.

Export Action Plan