Practical references for first-time exporters

Short, plain-language guides to the portals, paperwork and product codes behind every Indian export shipment.

DGFT Portal Help

Register and file on the DGFT portal

The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) portal at dgft.gov.in is where Indian export paperwork begins — IEC applications, authorisations and e-BRC records all live there. Work through these steps in order:

Create your login: register on the DGFT portal with the business PAN, an active mobile number and an email address you monitor daily.
Link the IEC or apply fresh: existing holders link their PAN-based IEC to the login; new exporters file the IEC application (ANF-2A) with PAN, bank details and address proof.
Pay the fee online: settle the IEC fee through the portal gateway and save the payment receipt with your records.
Track and download: follow the application status on the dashboard, then download the issued e-IEC certificate.
File onward applications: use the same login for advance authorisations, EPCG, status-holder applications and e-BRC submissions against each shipment.

Modern commercial district with office towers

Export Checklist

From IEC registration to shipment documents

Ten checkpoints no Indian export consignment should sail without. Tick each one before the goods leave your gate.

1. IEC registration: hold a valid Import Export Code issued by DGFT against your PAN.
2. Business registrations: keep GST, PAN and current-bank-account details consistent across every document.
3. AD code registration: register your Authorised Dealer code at the port of shipment through your bank.
4. GST LUT filing: file the Letter of Undertaking so exports move without IGST payment.
5. Buyer contract: sign a proforma invoice or sales contract stating Incoterms, payment terms and specifications.
6. Quality and lab reports: complete pre-shipment inspection and product testing (food, pharma and AYUSH lines need batch CoAs).
7. Export licences and NOCs: confirm whether your HS code needs APEDA, AYUSH, drug-controller or other clearances.
8. Packing and labelling: use export-grade packing with destination-market marks, barcodes and language requirements.
9. Logistics booking: book freight and marine insurance, and confirm the container or cargo handover in writing.
10. Shipment documents: prepare the invoice, packing list, bill of lading or airway bill, certificate of origin and phytosanitary or health papers, then file the shipping bill through customs.

HS Code Finder

Find the right 8-digit HS code for your product

Every export product travels under an HS (Harmonised System) code. India uses 8 digits: the first six are universal, and the last two are India's own subdivisions that fix your duty, incentives and licensing needs. A wrong code can hold a consignment at customs or cost you a valid incentive — so classify carefully.

Start with what the product is, not what it is called: its material, function and processing stage. Search the ITC-HS schedule for that description, read the section and chapter notes around the match (they decide borderline cases), and confirm the full 8-digit entry — including any policy conditions such as "restricted" or "free". When two headings seem to fit, the General Rules of Interpretation at the front of the schedule settle the tie; keep a note of why you chose the code, because customs can ask.

If the classification still feels uncertain — mixtures, finished AYUSH formulations and multi-material goods often are — send us the product details and we will confirm the code and its conditions before you quote or ship.

Ask our team