Importing goods from India is a lucrative business opportunity, but a single missing document can leave your shipment stuck at customs for weeks, incurring heavy demurrage charges.
At Quality Traders, we believe transparency is key. We ensure every shipment we dispatch is accompanied by a flawless set of documents. Here is the essential checklist every importer needs to know.
1. Commercial Invoice
This is the bill for the goods. It is not just a request for payment; it is a legal document used by customs to assess duties.
Must include: HS Codes, Incoterms (e.g., FOB, CIF), value per unit, and total value.
2. Packing List
This document details exactly what is in the shipment.
Why it matters: If customs wants to inspect a specific box, the packing list tells them exactly where to look. It must match the Commercial Invoice perfectly.
3. Bill of Lading (BL) / Airway Bill
This is the most critical document. It serves as:
A Receipt: Proof that the carrier has received the goods.
A Contract: The agreement between the shipper and carrier.
Title of Goods: Possession of the original BL allows you to claim the goods at the destination port.
4. Certificate of Origin (COO)
This document certifies that the goods were indeed manufactured in India.
Benefit: For many countries (especially in the GCC or EU), a COO allows you to claim reduced or zero import duties under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs).
5. Product-Specific Documents
Depending on what you are importing, you may need extra papers:
For Chemicals: MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) and COA (Certificate of Analysis).
For Garments: Inspection Certificates or Lab Test Reports (for Azo-free dyes).
We Handle the Paperwork
The complexity of documentation is why many buyers prefer working with a specialized Merchant Exporter. At Quality Traders, our logistics team prepares every document with precision, ensuring your goods clear customs effortlessly.
