A pro forma invoice example is a draft invoice that outlines the goods or services provided, along with the payment terms, before the final invoice is issued. For instance, a landscaping company might send a pro forma invoice to a client detailing the estimated cost of services before the work begins.
Pro forma invoices are essential for businesses as they help manage cash flow, track outstanding payments, and provide transparency to clients. Historically, pro forma invoices have evolved from simple handwritten documents to digital templates, streamlining the invoicing process.