List of Mandatory Documents for Exporting from India in 2025
In 2025, exports of goods from India involve strict documentation and compliance. Whether you export agricultural products, textiles or electronics, it is important to ensure even customs clearance and timely distribution.
Below we answer the most asked questions from exporters and what is mandatory and why.
What are the documents required for export from India in 2025?
Here’s the updated list of mandatory documents needed for most export shipments from India:
- Importer Exporter Code (IEC) – Mandatory for all exporters.
- Commercial Invoice – Specifies transaction value, buyer/seller details, and goods.
- Packing List – Breaks down item quantities, weight, and packaging details.
- Shipping Bill – Required by Indian Customs to process exports.
- Bill of Lading / Airway Bill – Issued by the carrier; proof of shipment.
- Certificate of Origin – Shows where the goods were manufactured.
- Insurance Certificate – Covers goods during transit (if applicable).
- FSSAI License – Required for food and edible goods.
- GST Invoice (if applicable) – For claiming input credit/export under LUT.
All these documents must match to avoid delays at customs.
How many documents are required to export goods from India?
There’s no fixed number, but most shipments require 7 to 9 documents, depending on the product, destination country, and export volume.
Here’s a simple breakdown:
| Type of Exporter | Number of Key Documents |
|---|---|
| General Exporter | 7–8 documents |
| Food/Agri Exporter | 8–10 documents (FSSAI, Phytosanitary, etc.) |
| MSME with support partner | 5–6 documents (outsourced CHA support) |
The complexity increases if you’re exporting regulated or high-value items.
Do I need FSSAI or IEC for exporting food items from India?
Yes, both are mandatory if you’re exporting any kind of food product, including:
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Processed foods or snacks
- Frozen food
- Packaged edible products
You need:
- FSSAI License (Export Category)
- IEC Code from DGFT
- Phytosanitary Certificate (for fresh produce)
- Lab test reports (if required by importing country)
Failing to include these can lead to rejection at destination customs or penalties.
Is shipping bill mandatory for all types of exports from India?
Yes – the Shipping Bill is compulsory for every export, regardless of product category. It’s the document through which:
- Customs assesses export duty (if applicable)
- Goods are officially cleared for export
- You can apply for export incentives like RODTEP or Duty Drawback
It’s filed electronically through the ICEGATE portal.
What is the difference between commercial invoice and proforma invoice in exports?
| Point of Comparison | Commercial Invoice | Proforma Invoice |
|---|---|---|
| When It’s Issued | Issued after order confirmation | Issued before final sale/contract |
| Legal Status | Legally binding, used for customs clearance | Non-binding, used for quotation & negotiation |
| Contents | Includes final amount, HS Code, buyer/seller info | Lists tentative price, product, delivery details |
Exporters often confuse the two, but only the commercial invoice is submitted to customs.
Do small exporters need all the same export documents as large companies?
Yes – regulatory requirements are the same, regardless of business size.
However:
- Small exporters can reduce the workload by means of export houses or freight forwarders who manage documentation.
- MSME can receive support under government schemes such as TIES, MEIS, or RoDTEP with less paperwork (but not exempt from mandatory docs).
Whether you export 100 kg or 10 tonnes, documents such as IEC, freight calculation and invoice are required.
Can I export without a certificate of origin?
Only in some cases, You need a Certificate of Origin (COO) when:
- The importing country demands it
- You want to claim reduced duties under trade agreements (e.g., India-UAE CEPA, SAFTA)
If not required by destination customs or not linked to any trade benefit, some exports may proceed without it — but it’s always safer to include one.
What are post-shipment documents required for export incentives?
To claim government incentives, you must file certain documents after shipment:
- EP Copy of Shipping Bill (with EDI print)
- Export General Manifest (EGM) – Proof that goods left Indian territory
- Bank Realisation Certificate (BRC) – Issued by your bank once payment is received
- DGFT Application – For schemes like RoDTEP, Duty Drawback, etc.
- GST Return Filing – Mandatory for zero-rated exports
Missing any of these can result in rejection of your incentive claim.
Final Words: Stay Compliant, Export Smoothly
Export documentation is not just a formality – this is the backbone of international trade. Errors or omissions can cost your business time so choose a reliable partner and trusted souce.
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