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Exporting goods from India to other countries is an important process that helps businesses grow globally. But to export successfully, exporters must follow certain rules and provide proper documents. These documents are needed to prove the details of goods, ownership, taxes, shipment, and legal compliance.

In this article, we will explain all the important documents required for export from India in a simple and easy way.

1. Commercial Invoice

A commercial invoice is a bill given by the exporter to the foreign buyer. It contains details like:

• Name and address of buyer and seller
• Description of goods
• Quantity and price
• Terms of delivery and payment
• Invoice number and date

This document is proof of sale and helps customs officers verify the shipment value.

2. Packing List

The packing list gives a detailed summary of all items packed in the shipment. It includes:

• Number of boxes or containers
• Weight and volume of each package
• Type of packaging (cartons, pallets, etc.)
• Description of goods in each box

This helps customs officials, shipping agents, and transporters to check and handle goods properly.

3. Shipping Bill or Bill of Export

This is one of the most important documents for Indian customs clearance. The exporter has to file a shipping bill (for sea or air shipment) or a bill of export (for land routes). It includes:

• Exporter's details
• Goods description and value
• Port of export
• Country of destination
• GST details

This document is filed electronically through the ICEGATE portal.

4. Bill of Lading (Sea Shipment) / Airway Bill (Air Shipment)

These are transport documents issued by the shipping or airline company.

• Bill of Lading is used for sea cargo and acts as a receipt and contract between the exporter and shipping line.
• Airway Bill is used for air cargo and provides shipment and delivery details.

These documents are required by importers to claim goods at the destination.

5. Certificate of Origin

A certificate of origin (COO) declares the country where the goods were manufactured. It is needed to:

• Get duty benefits under trade agreements
• Satisfy customs rules of importing countries

It can be issued by export promotion councils, chambers of commerce, or government agencies.

6. Letter of Credit or Payment Terms

If the buyer and seller agree to use a letter of credit (LC), the exporter must provide documents to the bank to receive payment. Other payment terms like advance payment, documents against payment (D/P), or documents against acceptance (D/A) also need supporting documents.

7. Export License (if applicable)

Some goods like defense items, precious metals, or restricted chemicals need an export license from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). If your product falls under restricted items, you must apply for a license before exporting.

8. GST Invoice and LUT (if applicable)

Under GST law in India:

• Exporters need to issue a GST invoice for goods exported.
• They can export without paying IGST by filing a Letter of Undertaking (LUT) with the GST department.
• Otherwise, they must pay IGST and claim a refund later.

9. Insurance Certificate

This is proof that the goods are insured during transport. It is useful in case goods are damaged or lost during shipment. It protects the exporter and importer from financial loss.

10. Export Declaration Form (EDF) – for Bank Processing

The EDF form is submitted to the authorized bank when receiving export payments. It is used to ensure that foreign exchange earnings from exports are reported to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)

How to Start an Import-Export Business – Step by Step Guide.

Conclusion

Exporting goods from India requires careful planning and the right set of documents. These documents ensure smooth customs clearance, payment security, legal compliance, and safe delivery. Before exporting, always check with your freight forwarder, customs broker, or DGFT for the latest rules and requirements.

Having proper export documents not only helps in avoiding delays but also builds trust with international buyers.