10 Essential Documents Required for Export Business in India

Starting an export business in India can be exciting and profitable. But many beginners get confused about the paperwork. The good news is, you don’t need a huge team or complex knowledge to get started. If you have the right documents ready, you can export goods smoothly and legally.

In this guide, we’ll explain the 10 essential documents required for an export business in India. By the end, you’ll know exactly what you need to start exporting without delays.

✅ Why Documents Are Important in Export Business

Every country has rules for imports and exports. India is no different. Documents are required to:

• Prove the legality of your business
• Show that goods meet safety and quality standards
• Help customs clear your shipment
• Avoid fines or delays

According to DGFT, over 60% of export delays happen due to missing or incorrect documents. So, having the right papers is crucial.

✅ 1. Import Export Code (IEC)

The IEC is the most important document. Without it, you cannot export legally.

• Issued by DGFT
• One-time registration
• Cost: ₹500
• Valid for lifetime

Tip: Keep a copy handy when talking to banks or customs.

✅ 2. GST Registration Certificate

Even for exports, GST registration is necessary. It allows you to:

• Claim input tax credit
• File returns easily
• Avoid legal penalties

Tip: Make sure your GST number is active and matches your IEC details.

✅ 3. Commercial Invoice

A Commercial Invoice is like a receipt for your buyer. It contains:

• Seller and buyer details
• Product description and quantity
• Price of goods
• Payment terms

Tip: Accurate invoices reduce delays and help with customs clearance.

✅ 4. Packing List

The Packing List shows exactly what’s inside each carton or container.

• Helps customs verify goods
• Makes shipping easier
• Useful for inventory tracking

Tip: Always include weight, dimensions, and item codes.

✅ 5. Bill of Lading / Airway Bill

This is proof that your goods are in transit.

• Bill of Lading: Used for sea shipments
• Airway Bill: Used for air shipments

It’s needed to claim your shipment from the carrier.

✅ 6. Certificate of Origin

The Certificate of Origin proves where your goods come from.

• Required by customs in some countries
• Needed for claiming preferential duty rates under trade agreements

Tip: Check if your goods qualify for India-UAE or India-US trade benefits.

✅ 7. Insurance Certificate

Shipping goods internationally is risky. Insurance protects your shipment from loss, damage, or theft.

• Covers sea, air, or land transport
• Usually arranged by freight forwarders
• Cost depends on product value and mode of transport

Tip: Always check insurance coverage for the full value.

✅ 8. Export Licenses (If Required)

Some products need special export licenses in India, for example:

• Food items → FSSAI license
• Chemicals → DGFT permission
• Pharmaceuticals → CDSCO approval

Tip: Always confirm with DGFT or concerned authorities before exporting.

✅ 9. Foreign Exchange Documents

All exports involve receiving payment from a foreign buyer. You need:

• Letter of Credit (LC) or Bank Transfer Receipt
• Form A2 for RBI compliance
• Proof of payment for customs

Tip: Proper documentation ensures smooth banking and customs clearance.

✅ 10. Any Other Regulatory Certificates

Some products need additional certificates to meet international standards:

• FSSAI for food exports
• Phytosanitary certificates for plants
• ISO or quality certificates for manufactured goods

Tip: Always check the destination country’s import requirements.

📊 Quick Export Facts for India

• India exported $778 billion worth of goods in 2023-24 (DGFT)
• Top exports: textiles, spices, garments, tea, and leather goods
• Small exporters contribute over 40% of total exports
• Export via air: 5–10 days, via sea: 20–30 days

❓ 10 FAQs – Export Documents in India

Q1. Is IEC mandatory for exports?
Yes, without IEC you cannot legally export goods.

Q2. Do I need GST for exports?
Yes, GST registration is required for all exporters.

Q3. What is Commercial Invoice?
It’s a receipt given to the buyer showing product details, price, and terms.

Q4. Who issues the Certificate of Origin?
Chambers of Commerce or authorized authorities issue it.

Q5. Do all products require an export license?
No, only restricted items like food, chemicals, and pharma require licenses.

Q6. Can I file export documents online?
Yes, DGFT and Indian Customs have online portals for most documents.

Q7. How long does customs clearance take?
Usually 3–7 days if documents are correct.

Q8. Is insurance mandatory for exports?
Not mandatory, but highly recommended to protect your shipment.

Q9. What is Form A2?
It’s a form submitted to RBI for receiving foreign currency payment for exports.

Q10. Can a small business manage export documents alone?
Yes, with proper guidance and a freight forwarder or customs broker, even small businesses can manage easily.

✅ Final Thoughts

The 10 documents above are essential for exporting goods from India. With proper preparation, even beginners can start their business without delays. Correct documentation ensures smooth customs clearance, safe payments, and a hassle-free export experience.