Customs Duty & Import Export

Customs duty can change the real cost of what you import. We tell you the duty before the goods arrive, keep the paperwork correct and help you avoid delays at the port.

Who it suits

Importers, exporters, manufacturers who bring in raw material or machinery, online sellers who source from abroad, and returning travellers or families bringing in large baggage.

How import duty is worked out

Assessable value: the invoice value plus freight and insurance (CIF), in rupees
Basic customs duty (BCD): set per product code, generally from 0% to a maximum rate
Social welfare surcharge: calculated on the BCD, where applicable
IGST: normally charged on the value plus duty, and can usually be claimed as credit
Anti-dumping or other special duties on some products

Getting the product code (HSN) right matters most. A wrong code means wrong duty, penalties and held cargo.

What we help with

HSN classification and duty rate advice
Duty calculation before you place the order
Using trade agreements (FTA and CEPA) to cut duty
Import and export document filing on ICEGATE
IEC registration and yearly update
Bonded warehouse schemes for businesses that import and re-export
AEO status support for regular traders
Replies to customs notices

Documents needed

Imports:

Importer Exporter Code (IEC)
Bill of Entry
Commercial invoice and packing list
Bill of Lading or Airway Bill
Certificate of Origin, where you claim a treaty benefit
Insurance certificate

Exports:

Shipping Bill
Sale contract or purchase order
Authorised dealer (AD) code registered with customs

Our process

1You send the product details, supplier invoice and country of origin.
2We confirm the product code and the total duty and show your landed cost.
3We check every document before the goods arrive.
4We file the Bill of Entry or Shipping Bill and follow the clearance.
5We keep your records ready for later audits.

Common questions

What is the IEC?

The Importer Exporter Code is a 10-digit code from the government that you need to import or export goods. It must be updated every year on the DGFT portal.

What happens if goods are not cleared in time?

Goods left uncleared for long can attract storage and detention charges, and in the end can be auctioned. We plan clearance before arrival.

Can I reduce duty using a trade agreement?

Often yes, if the goods qualify under the agreement’s rules of origin and you hold the right certificate. We check before you order.

How do I track my shipment status?

You can check it on ICEGATE with your Bill of Entry number. If you work with us, we send you status updates.

Get a quote

General information, not professional advice. Tax rates, limits and due dates change, so we confirm the current position for your case before we file. Government fees are separate from our service charge and are quoted before work begins.