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How to Create a Catering Invoice and What to Include

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Welcome to catering invoicing 101. Let's discuss why invoices are important and what you need to include in them.

Catering can be quite a competitive industry.

This industry requires attention to detail, especially when it comes to billing. A well-crafted invoice helps ensure prompt payment from clients and serves as a clear record of the services provided. In this article, we'll look at the key elements that should be included in a catering invoice, as well as tips for creating one that is both professional and easy to understand. Let's jump in.

What is a catering invoice?

A restaurant or catering company uses catering invoices to provide customers with a detailed record of the goods or services they have purchased, and for the business to bill them for those goods or services.

In the past, many businesses used pen and paper for their catering service invoices. However, this can be time-consuming and prone to error.

Today, invoicing software can help small businesses streamline the process and easily track past and future orders. There are various restaurant catering software options in the market today. It’s essential that your catering business chooses the right choice for your unique use case to provide professional invoices that check all of the boxes without taking up all of your budget.

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Invoicing made easy
Create and send digital invoices that your customers can easily pay online and in person with Toast Invoicing.

Why does your catering business need invoices?

It’s important for a catering company to provide invoices because they provide proof of transaction, enable you to file taxes, and help track your small business’ performance.

Your catering business needs invoices to serve as a record of the transaction. This way, you can avoid any miscommunication with your client about payment or prices. When a catering job takes place, it should be tracked along with its payment. This process can be simplified by using catering invoice templates.

Invoices for the business help track sales and expenses. This way, your business can analyze how well it’s performing and what actually works. For example, buffet-style catering might decrease in popularity whereas corporate catering with individually packaged items may increase. Being able to track this data over time through invoices helps your catering business advertise what’s popular and pivot as necessary.

Additionally, invoices are often required for tax purposes, as they provide proof of income and expenses for the business.

What should a catering invoice include?

A catering invoice should include the following information:

  • Your business name, company logo, and contact information, including address, phone number, and email address
  • The name and contact information of the customer, including the name of the person or organization, their address, phone number, and email address
  • Dates, including the invoice date and the date the event will take/took place
  • A unique invoice number for the order
  • A detailed description of the food services provided, including the type of event, the number of guests, the menu items, and any additional services such as setup, service staff, or equipment rentals
  • The cost of each item or service, including the unit price and the total price for each item or service on an itemized list
  • The subtotal/total costs, including any applicable taxes or fees
  • Payment terms and methods, including the payment due date and the accepted payment methods (e.g. check, credit card, debit, cash, etc.)
  • Any additional information or terms and conditions that may be relevant, such as cancellation policies, discounts, or cleaning-up fees

Creating a catering invoice is an essential step in running a successful catering business. It ensures that both the catering company and the client have a clear understanding of the services provided and the costs associated with them. Additionally, make sure to proofread and double-check the invoice for accuracy before sending it to the client. By following these steps, you can ensure that your invoicing process is smooth and efficient. This way, your clients are satisfied with the services you provide.

Resource
Restaurant Banquet Event Order (BEO) Template
This free BEO template can help your restaurant optimize incoming catering requests and streamline documentation.

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DISCLAIMER: This information is provided for general informational purposes only, and publication does not constitute an endorsement. Toast does not warrant the accuracy or completeness of any information, text, graphics, links, or other items contained within this content. Toast does not guarantee you will achieve any specific results if you follow any advice herein. It may be advisable for you to consult with a professional such as a lawyer, accountant, or business advisor for advice specific to your situation.