Navigating export documentation can be overwhelming for first-time exporters. A single missing or incorrect document can cause costly delays at customs. This comprehensive checklist from Shashi Manglam Export covers every document you need to ensure smooth, compliant shipments from India to any global destination.
Core Export Documents
These documents are mandatory for virtually every international shipment originating from India:
- IEC Code (Import Export Code) — Issued by DGFT, this is your gateway to exporting from India
- Commercial Invoice — Details the transaction between exporter and importer including price, currency, and payment terms
- Packing List — Itemised list of contents, weights, and measurements of each package
- Bill of Lading / Airway Bill — The contract of carriage issued by the shipping line or airline
- Certificate of Origin — Issued by FIEO, EPC, or Chamber of Commerce to prove Indian origin
- Shipping Bill — Filed with Indian Customs via ICEGATE for clearance
Commodity-Specific Documents
Depending on the product category, additional certificates may be required by the importing country:
- Phytosanitary Certificate — Required for agricultural products, spices, and plant-based goods
- Health Certificate — Mandatory for food products destined for EU, USA, Japan, and Australia
- GSP Certificate of Origin (Form A) — For availing preferential tariff under Generalised System of Preferences
- FSSAI NOC — For processed food exports to certain markets
- Pre-Shipment Inspection Certificate — Required by some importing countries as proof of quality conformance
How Shashi Manglam Export Handles Documentation
Our in-house trade documentation team manages the entire paperwork lifecycle — from IEC compliance to customs filing — so you can focus on growing your business. We maintain zero-error documentation standards that have resulted in a 99.7% on-time customs clearance rate over 5 years of operation.
Get in touch with our trade experts for a free documentation consultation tailored to your product category and target market.