Business Contract Template
All states
A business contract template is a legally enforceable agreement between two or more parties engaged in a commercial transaction. It can be written or verbal, though a written business contract template is always recommended for clarity and legal protection.
When Is a Business Contract Used?
Business contracts are used in nearly every industry. Anytime goods, services, or financial transactions are exchanged, a contract can help define expectations and safeguard interests. Here are common scenarios where business contract agreements are necessary:
- Partnership agreements — A business agreement contract defines ownership, profit-sharing, and decision-making authority if you're forming a business with a co-founder or investor.
- Service agreements — Freelancers, consultants, and contractors rely on business agreement contracts to ensure they get paid for their services and their clients receive expected deliverables.
- Employment contracts — Companies use business contracts templates to define employer-employee expectations, including job responsibilities, salary, benefits, and termination conditions.
- Sales agreements — When selling products or property, a business contract outlines the terms of the sale, payment methods, and delivery conditions.
In these situations, well-structured contracts for business ensure that all parties understand their obligations and liabilities. A business contract template can streamline the process, saving time and reducing legal risks.
How To Fill Out a Business Contract?
Step 1: Enter the contract date and party information
Simple business contracts identify when the agreement is made and who the parties involved are.
- Write the "Effective Date" of the business agreement.
- Include the full name and address of the Seller.
- Include the full name and address of the Buyer.
This Business Contract for the sale of products/goods (the "Contract") is entered into on April 10, 2024 (the "Effective Date") by and between:
William Carter, an individual residing at 500 Oak Street, San Diego, CA, 92101 (the "Seller"), and
Emily Parker, an individual residing at 745 Maple Avenue, Austin, TX, 78701 (the "Buyer").
Step 2: Define the subject of the contract & payment terms
A printable business contract template specifies the agreement and how payments should be handled.
- Clearly describe the goods or services being sold (the "Object(s)").
- Indicate the total purchase price and payment terms.
Product: 50 units of high-speed office printers
Model: Canon X500 Series
The total purchase price for the listed Object(s) is $25,000 (the "Purchase Price"). Payment shall be made as follows:
50% upfront payment upon contract signing
Remaining 50% upon delivery of the goods
Step 3: Set delivery details
A business agreement template specifies when and how the goods or services will be delivered.
- Define the deadline for delivery.
- List the delivery address where goods should be sent.
- Indicate the delivery method (e.g., shipping, local pickup).
The Seller shall deliver the goods to the Buyer on or before May 1, 2024.
The goods shall be delivered to the Buyer's address at 745 Maple Avenue, Austin, TX, 78701.
The Seller shall deliver the goods using the following method: UPS Freight Shipping. Both Parties must agree upon any changes to the delivery method in writing.
Step 4: Outline inspection & return policy
To avoid disputes, include in the business contract sample PDF terms regarding product inspection and defect handling.
- Specify how long the Buyer has to inspect the goods after receiving them.
- Detail what happens if defects or damages are found.
- Indicate whether the Seller is responsible for return costs.
The Buyer is entitled to inspect the delivered goods within 5 days of receipt.
If any discrepancies, defects, or damages are found, the Buyer must notify the Seller in writing.
If the goods are found to be defective or damaged, the Seller shall be responsible for the cost of return shipping and shall replace the defective goods within 10 days of receipt of the returned product.
Step 5: Sign the contract
For the business contract example to be legally binding, both parties must sign it.
- Have the Buyer and Seller print and sign their names.
- Include their addresses for confirmation.
- Each party should keep a signed copy for their records.
THE BUYER
Emily Parker
745 Maple Avenue
Austin, TX, 78701
USA
THE SELLER
William Carter
500 Oak Street
San Diego, CA, 92101
USA
- Double-check for accuracy before signing.
- Ensure both parties receive a signed copy.
- Store contracts for business in a safe place for future reference.