Export Documentation & Licensing Guide

What it is: A 10-character code issued by the DGFT and linked to the business PAN.
When it may apply: Generally needed for most import and export activity from India; some exemptions exist.

What it is: India’s indirect tax registration. Exports are zero-rated, typically shipped under a Letter of Undertaking (LUT) or with IGST paid and refunded.
When it may apply: Relevant to most businesses supplying goods; confirm thresholds and procedure with your accountant.

What it is: An Authorised Dealer code from your bank, registered with customs at each port of export.
When it may apply: Commonly needed so shipping bills can be filed and export proceeds tracked.

What it is: Registration-cum-Membership Certificate from the relevant Export Promotion Council or commodity board.
When it may apply: Often needed to claim Foreign Trade Policy benefits and for certain product categories.

What it is: A preliminary invoice confirming price, quantity, specifications and terms before shipment.
When it may apply: Used by buyers to arrange payment, LCs or import permissions.

What it is: The final bill for the goods showing parties, description, HS code, value, currency and Incoterm.
When it may apply: Used by customs in both countries and by banks under many payment terms.

What it is: Details packages, contents, weights and dimensions.
When it may apply: Used by customs, forwarders and buyers to check cargo.

What it is: Certifies where goods were produced; preferential versions can reduce import duty under trade agreements.
When it may apply: Requested by some buyers, banks or destination customs.

What it is: The export declaration filed with Indian Customs, usually through ICEGATE by a customs broker.
When it may apply: Filed for goods cleared through customs for export.

What it is: Sea-freight document issued by the carrier — receipt, contract of carriage and, if negotiable, document of title.
When it may apply: Issued for sea shipments.

What it is: Air-freight transport document and receipt; not a document of title.
When it may apply: Issued for air shipments.

What it is: Cargo insurance policy or certificate covering loss or damage in transit.
When it may apply: Arranged by seller or buyer depending on Incoterm (e.g. seller under CIF).

What it is: Quality, analysis, conformity, halal, organic or similar certificates tied to the product or market.
When it may apply: Depends on product, buyer contract and destination rules.

What it is: Reports from inspection agencies or authorities confirming quality, quantity or compliance.
When it may apply: Where mandated for certain goods or required by buyers or LCs.

What it is: Certification that plant-origin goods meet the importing country’s plant-health requirements.
When it may apply: Commonly relevant for plants, seeds, grains and some agricultural products.

What it is: Food Safety and Standards Authority of India licensing and standards for food businesses.
When it may apply: May be relevant for food products, depending on business activity and product.

What it is: Licences, permits or restrictions under export policy, commodity boards or destination authorities.
When it may apply: Check the ITC-HS export policy for your product and the destination’s import rules.