Required export documents
1. Commercial invoice
In addition to the usual commercial information, the invoice must contain the following:
- Precise description of the goods incl. HS code
- Country of origin
- Gross and net weight of the goods
- Number, quantity and type of packages
- Transport information such as the name of the ship / Flight number
- Port of loading / Port of departure and port of unloading / Destination port
- Final destination
- Import license number, if applicable
- Goods and Service Taxpayer Identification Number (GSTIN) of the importer
- Legal signature of the exporter
It is also advisable to add the following declaration at the end of the invoice.
"We declare that the invoice shows the actual price of the goods described and that all particulars are true and correct".
2. Packing list
The shipment must be accompanied by a packing list containing an overview of the details and contents of the packages, including their dimensions and quantity.
3. Certificate of origin
Generally, certificates of origin certified by the Chamber of Commerce are required
4. Marking of goods
As a rule, the following information must be marked on the packaging:
- Name and address of the manufacturer
- Name and type of product
- Country of origin
- Date of production and expiry, if applicable
Depending on the product group, further information must be affixed.
5. Goods and Service Taxpayer Identification Number (GSTIN)
The 15-digit GSTIN of the Indian importer must be indicated on all documents. If the importer is exempt from GSTIN, the 10-digit Permanent Account Number (PAN) must be listed instead.
You can also obtain detailed information on the import formalities applicable to your products in India from our free customs database.
Sanctions / Embargoes / Export controls
At the time of writing of this article, no sanctions or embargoes were in place against India. However, this can change at any time, which is why we recommend you check whether corresponding measures have been imposed prior to each export. Certain products and product groups, such as dual-use goods, require an export permit even for delivery to non-sanctioned countries.
S-GE tips
Incoterms
In principle, all Incoterms clauses can be used for deliveries to India. You should be aware, however, that under the DDP (Duty Delivered Paid) clause, you as the seller bear maximum responsibility and must cover all costs.
Terms of payment
Getting paid can be difficult, frustrating and time-consuming. It is therefore advisable to find a compromise with the Indian company beforehand. A letter of credit, for example, does indeed incur fees, but is nevertheless less expensive than possible court proceedings.
All information in this article is provided for guidance only and is neither exhaustive nor legally binding.
