If you’re preparing to ship your first export order, you may be wondering:
What documents do I need for customs clearance in India?
Whether you’re exporting from India by sea or air, this guide will walk you through the essential paperwork required to get your goods cleared by Indian Customs through the ICEGATE portal.
✅ Updated for 2025
✅ Step-by-step checklist
✅ Ideal for first-time exporters
🧾 Why Customs Documentation Matters
Customs clearance is the final gate your shipment must pass before it leaves India.
Even small mistakes can cause:
- Delays at the port
- Shipment hold or rejection
- Loss of incentives (like RoDTEP or IGST refund)
By submitting the correct documents, you ensure a smooth process with no penalties or rejections.
🚢 Key Documents Required for Export Customs Clearance
Below are the core documents you’ll need to submit via e-Sanchit on ICEGATE, either yourself or through your CHA (Customs House Agent).
1. Commercial Invoice
Your official export bill to the buyer. Must include:
- Exporter & buyer details
- HS code, quantity, value, currency
- Incoterms (FOB/CIF/EXW)
- IEC, GSTIN, and invoice number
2. Packing List
Describes the contents of your shipment:
- Product description
- Net/gross weight
- Package count
- Marks and numbers
- Invoice reference
✅ Should exactly match your invoice for a smooth clearance.
3. Shipping Bill
Filed electronically via ICEGATE by your CHA or freight forwarder. It’s your customs declaration for export clearance.
Once approved, customs will issue a Let Export Order (LEO).
4. Bill of Lading / Airway Bill
Issued by your shipping line or airline. Acts as:
- Proof of shipment
- Transport contract
- Title of goods (used for payment release)
5. Certificate of Origin (CoO)
Proves that goods were manufactured in India.
Helps your buyer claim preferential duty benefits (if applicable).
✅ Issued by EPCs like FIEO, APEDA, EEPC or Chamber of Commerce.
6. IEC Certificate
Your Importer Exporter Code (IEC) must be submitted with your application.
✅ If filed digitally, your IEC number is auto-filled on ICEGATE.
7. GST Registration Copy
Needed to match tax records and for IGST refund processing.
📦 Additional Certificates (If Applicable)
| Certificate | When It’s Needed |
|---|---|
| Fumigation Certificate | Export of wood, agro goods, to Australia/USA |
| Phytosanitary Certificate | Fresh produce, grains, plants |
| Inspection Certificate | Buyer-specific or country-specific standards |
| Insurance Certificate | CIF shipments or if buyer requests it |
| MSDS Sheet | For chemicals, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals |
💡 ICEGATE e-Sanchit: Uploading Documents Digitally
Log into ICEGATE.gov.in and use the e-Sanchit feature to upload PDFs:
- Max 1MB per document
- Must be clear and signed/scanned properly
- Label files accurately: e.g.
Invoice_SB101.pdf,PackingList_SB101.pdf
✅ Export Customs Clearance Checklist
✔️ Commercial Invoice
✔️ Packing List
✔️ IEC Certificate
✔️ GSTIN Copy
✔️ Certificate of Origin
✔️ Shipping Bill (filed by CHA)
✔️ BL / AWB (provided after cargo dispatch)
✔️ Additional certificates (as required)
👨💼 Tip: Use a Trusted Freight Forwarder or CHA
Your Customs House Agent (CHA) or freight partner will help:
- File the shipping bill
- Get the Let Export Order (LEO)
- Coordinate document uploads
- Handover shipping documents
Ask for your SB Number, BL, and LEO copy once the shipment is cleared.
📌 Final Thoughts
Having your customs documentation 100% ready is the most underrated way to avoid delays and penalties.
As a new exporter, following a checklist and working closely with your CHA will ensure your shipment sails smoothly.
📥 Download:
🆓 Get our free Export Customs Clearance Checklist (Word) on our Resources Hub
Want a complete, step-by-step system to go from registration to shipping in 30 days?
👉 Check out our ₹299 beginner-friendly guide:
Start Exporting from India in Just 30 Days
