compte de vente

07:42 Mar 13, 2015 

I finally went with 'sale on account' which the client accepted as correct - so if you'd like to put that in as an answer I can close the question. Thanks for your input, even if I was on the right line it's always reassuring to have peer back-up.

00:25 Mar 6, 2015 

I think your hunch is correct, “sale on account”.

21:54 Mar 5, 2015 

The company which received the damaged goods at the port is claiming a certain amount in damages but has no invoice for the purchase of the goods because the work on a 'compte de vente' basis. They sell the goods for whatever the market price is, wherever they can, they then pay this amount to the producer who in turn pays them a commission.<p>

This system must logically exist in English speaking countries but I can't find it, nor can I find any confirmation that its something as simple as 'sale on account'.