International Shipping & Export From India

What is International Shipping? Understanding the Basics

International shipping is the process of transporting goods across borders between countries through air, sea, or land routes. For Indian businesses, it involves exporting products globally while navigating customs regulations, documentation requirements, and compliance standards.

Key components of international shipping:

Cross-border logistics management
Customs clearance procedures
Documentation and compliance
Import-Export Code (IEC) registration
International shipping routes and carriers

Why International Shipping Matters for Indian Businesses

Expanding from domestic to international markets opens significant growth opportunities. However, success requires more than just logistics—it demands strategic planning, proper documentation, and understanding of global trade regulations.

Benefits of Exporting from India

Market expansion: Access to billions of customers worldwide Revenue diversification: Reduce dependency on domestic markets Competitive advantage: Leverage India’s manufacturing strengths Currency benefits: Earnings in foreign currency

Also Read: 9 Products to Export From India

Getting Started: How to Ship Internationally from India

Step 1: Obtain Your Import Export Code (IEC)

The Import Export Code (IEC) is mandatory for all international business activities from India. This 10-digit code is issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT).

How to get your IEC:

Visit the official DGFT portal
Submit required business documentation
Pay the applicable fees
Receive your unique 10-digit IEC

Important: No export from India is legally possible without an IEC.

Step 2: Research Your Target Market

Before selecting products to export, research:

Destination country regulations
Prohibited and restricted items
Import duties and taxes
Market demand and competition
Cultural preferences and buying patterns

Step 3: Select Products for Export

International Shipping from India: Step-by-Step Process

1. Order Confirmation & Preparation

Verify essential details with your buyer:

Product description and specifications
Quantity ordered
Delivery dates and timelines
Payment terms and method
Shipping incoterms (FOB, CIF, DDP, etc.)

2. Gather Export Documentation

Essential documents required:

Commercial invoice
Packing list
Shipping bill (Bill of Export)
Bill of Lading (sea) or Air Waybill (air)
Certificate of Origin
Insurance certificate (if applicable)
Letter of Credit or payment documents

Pro tip: Double-check all documents for accuracy to avoid customs delays.

3. Pay Central Excise Duty

File for rebate using ARE-1 form or through bond/letter of undertaking.

4. Customs Verification & Clearance

Customs authorities will inspect:

Product quality and compliance
Documentation accuracy
Adherence to export regulations
HS Code classification

5. Choose Your Logistics Partner

Top international shipping companies for India:

FedEx – Global express courier services
UPS – Reliable worldwide delivery
DHL – International express shipping
DTDC – Cost-effective solutions
Blue Dart – Comprehensive logistics

Selection criteria:

Network coverage and reach
Transit times to destination
International shipping cost from India
Tracking capabilities
Insurance coverage
Weekend delivery options

6. Packaging & Labeling

Proper export packaging protects goods during long-distance transit.

Export packaging materials:

Paper-based (cartons, corrugated boxes)
Plastic-based (shrink wrap, bubble wrap)
Wood-based (pallets, crates)
Metal-based (containers, drums)
Glass-based (for specific products)

Best practices:

Use durable, impact-resistant materials
Include proper labeling with HS codes
Mark fragile items clearly
Ensure compliance with destination country standards

7. Submit Shipping Documents

Provide complete documentation to your carrier:

Bills of lading
Export invoice
Shipping bill
Packing list
Special handling instructions

8. Track Your Shipment

Use international shipping tracking services to:

Monitor real-time location
Anticipate delivery dates
Identify potential delays
Communicate with buyers

Popular tracking platforms:

India Post international shipping tracking
Courier-specific tracking portals
Third-party logistics dashboards

9. Buyer Receives Shipment

Ensure the buyer receives:

Shipping documents
Bill of lading
Commercial invoice
Packing list

These documents are needed for customs clearance in the destination country.

Understanding International Shipping Costs from India

Factors Affecting International Shipping Charges

Distance & destination: Longer routes cost more Weight & dimensions: Volumetric weight pricing applies Shipping mode: Air freight vs. sea freight Customs duties: Vary by country and product Insurance: Optional but recommended Peak season surcharges: Holiday periods increase costs Fuel surcharges: Fluctuating based on oil prices

How to Reduce International Shipping Costs

Optimize packaging – Minimize weight and dimensions
Consolidate shipments – Combine multiple orders
Choose appropriate shipping mode – Balance speed and cost
Negotiate bulk rates – Volume discounts with carriers
Use free trade agreements – Leverage India’s FTAs
Select proper incoterms – Clarify cost responsibilities

Export Documentation: Complete Compliance Guide

1. Sales Contract & Pro Forma Invoice

Sales Contract legally binds buyer and seller, including:

Product specifications
Pricing structure
Payment terms
Delivery conditions
Incoterms

Pro Forma Invoice provides preliminary cost breakdown for:

Customs procedures
Import permits
Buyer’s financial planning

2. Commercial Invoice (Most Critical Document)

Checked by customs in both countries, includes:

Buyer and seller details
Product descriptions
HS Codes (Harmonized System codes)
Product value and currency
Country of origin
Incoterms
Payment terms
Shipping marks and numbers

3. Packing List

Details for customs inspection:

Quantity per package
Net and gross weight
Dimensions of each box/container
Package numbering

4. Shipping Bill (Bill of Export)

Filed electronically through ICEGATE portal, contains:

Exporter details
Consignee information
Product description
HS Code
FOB value
Port of discharge

5. Bill of Lading (BoL) or Air Waybill (AWB)

For sea freight: Bill of Lading For air freight: Air Waybill

Essential details:

Shipper and consignee information
Port of loading and discharge
Description of goods
Weight and dimensions
Freight charges and payment terms

6. Certificate of Origin (CoO)

Certifies the country where goods were manufactured. Required for:

Customs clearance
Tariff determination
Trade agreement benefits

7. Insurance Certificate

Covers loss or damage during transit. Includes:

Insured value
Coverage terms
Policy number
Insurance provider details

8. Dangerous Goods Declaration (DGD)

Mandatory for hazardous materials, specifying:

UN number
Proper shipping name
Hazard class
Packing group
Emergency contact

9. Registration-cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC)

Issued by Export Promotion Councils, required for:

Customs clearance
Duty drawback benefits
Export incentives

Read: International Shipping Challenges

Understanding Customs Duties & Taxes

Components of Cross-Border Duties

Basic Customs Duty (BCD): Based on HS Code classification
Integrated GST (IGST): Goods and Services Tax on imports
Surcharges: Additional charges if applicable
Anti-dumping duties: On specific products from specific countries

Calculation Method

Duties are calculated on CIF value (Cost + Insurance + Freight)

Incoterms: Who Pays What?

DDP (Delivered Duty Paid): Seller pays all duties and taxes DDU (Delivered Duty Unpaid): Buyer pays customs duties FOB (Free on Board): Seller pays until goods loaded on ship CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight): Seller pays shipping and insurance

What is De Minimis in International Shipping?

De minimis is the value threshold below which shipments are exempt from customs duties and taxes. Each country sets its own de minimis value.

Examples (approximate 2026 values):

USA: $800
European Union: €150
Canada: CAD $20
Australia: AUD $1,000

Benefits:

Faster customs clearance
Lower shipping costs
Simplified documentation

Restricted, Banned & Regulated Export Items from India

Products Requiring DGFT Authorization

Chemicals & Hazardous Substances

Industrial chemicals
Toxic materials
Ozone-depleting substances

Ammunition & Firearms

Weapons and explosives
Military equipment

Pharmaceuticals

Controlled drugs
Prescription medications
Narcotic substances

Wildlife & Animal Products

Live animals and birds
Animal parts and derivatives
Endangered species

Defense & Technology

SCOMET items (Special Chemicals, Organisms, Materials, Equipment, and Technologies)
Dual-use technology

Agricultural Products

Certain grains during shortages
Seeds requiring permits

Precious Items

Sandalwood
Antiques over 100 years old
Certain minerals and ores

Human Materials

Blood and blood products
Human organs

Environmental Materials

Sand and soil
Certain wood species

How to Check Prohibited Items

Visit DGFT official website (dgft.gov.in)
Check ITC (HS) classifications
Review destination country’s import regulations
Consult with customs broker or freight forwarder

Read: Products Banned and Restricted in International Shipping

Choosing International Shipping Services Near Me

Finding the Right Shipping Partner

Search for “international shipping services near me” to find:

Local freight forwarders
Courier service centers
Customs house agents
Logistics companies

Read: How to Choose the Right Shipping Partner

Evaluation Criteria

Network coverage: Can they reach your target markets? Transit times: Meet customer expectations? Pricing transparency: Clear international shipping charges? Tracking capabilities: Real-time updates available? Insurance options: Protect your goods in transit? Customer support: Responsive and helpful? Weekend deliveries: Reduce delivery times?

Top International Courier Companies from India

FedEx International

Express worldwide delivery
Extensive tracking
Reliable air freight

UPS Worldwide

Global logistics solutions
Customs brokerage services
Supply chain management

DHL Express

Fast international delivery
Door-to-door service
Customs clearance support

DTDC International

Cost-effective solutions
Pan-India presence
Document and parcel services

Blue Dart

Part of DHL network
Strong domestic connectivity
International partnerships

India Post International Services

Government postal service
Competitive India Post international shipping charges
Reliable for documents and small parcels

International Shipping Routes from India

Major Export Ports in India

Sea Ports:

Nhava Sheva (JNPT), Mumbai – Largest container port
Chennai Port – Major gateway to Southeast Asia
Mundra Port – Private sector leader
Kolkata Port – Eastern India hub
Vizag Port – Growing importance
Cochin Port – Southwest coast

Air Cargo Hubs:

Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai
Kempegowda International Airport, Bangalore
Chennai International Airport
Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad

Popular International Shipping Routes

India to USA: West Coast via Pacific routes, East Coast via Suez Canal India to Europe: Through Suez Canal, Mediterranean routes India to Middle East: Direct Persian Gulf routes India to Southeast Asia: Bay of Bengal and Malacca Strait India to Africa: Direct East African routes India to Australia: Indian Ocean routes

Overcoming Challenges in Cross-Border Trade

1. Regulatory Complexities

Challenge: Different rules across countries Solution: Stay updated with trade compliance, use customs brokers, subscribe to trade alerts

2. Currency Exchange Fluctuations

Challenge: Impact on pricing and profits Solution: Use forward contracts, price in stable currencies, regular market monitoring

3. Language & Cultural Barriers

Challenge: Communication gaps, cultural misunderstandings Solution: Hire multilingual staff, use professional translators, study cultural business practices

4. Supply Chain Disruptions

Challenge: Delays from unforeseen events Solution: Maintain buffer inventory, diversify shipping routes, have contingency plans

5. Payment Delays & Risks

Challenge: Cross-border transaction delays, non-payment risks Solution: Use Letters of Credit, advance payments, ECGC insurance coverage

6. Documentation Errors

Challenge: Customs rejections, shipment holds Solution: Triple-check all documents, use documentation software, consult experts

7. Lost or Damaged Goods

Challenge: Cargo theft, damage in transit Solution: Adequate insurance, quality packaging, reliable carriers, GPS tracking

Best Practices for Seamless Export Experience

Work with Amazon Global Selling

Benefits:

Access to Amazon’s global marketplace
Service Provider Network for compliance
Logistics and fulfillment support
Payment processing solutions
Marketing and customer reach

Maintain Clear Communication

Regular updates with buyers
Coordinate with customs authorities
Stay in touch with logistics partners
Document all communications

Use Technology

Digital tools for efficiency:

Export management software
Automated documentation systems
Real-time tracking platforms
Digital payment gateways

Risk Management

Protect your business:

ECGC insurance for non-payment
Cargo insurance for goods
Currency hedging
Legal contracts

Quality Control

Pre-shipment inspections
Compliance with destination standards
Proper packaging and labeling
Regular supplier audits

Building a Scalable Export Business from India

Key Success Factors

1. Strategic planning: Research markets, identify opportunities 2. Compliance focus: Stay legal, avoid penalties 3. Strong partnerships: Reliable shipping and logistics 4. Technology adoption: Automation and digital tools 5. Customer service: Build international reputation 6. Continuous learning: Adapt to market changes

Growth Strategies

Start small: Test markets with limited products Scale gradually: Expand based on demand Diversify markets: Don’t depend on single country Build brand: Consistent quality and service Leverage FTAs: Use India’s free trade agreements Seek certifications: ISO, organic, fair trade, etc.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is international shipping?

International shipping is the process of transporting goods from one country to another via air, sea, or land routes while complying with customs regulations, documentation requirements, and international trade laws.

How much does international shipping from India cost?

International shipping costs vary based on destination, weight, dimensions, shipping mode (air/sea), customs duties, and insurance. Sea freight typically costs ₹3,000-₹15,000 per cubic meter, while air freight ranges from ₹150-₹500 per kilogram.

What documents are required for international shipping from India?

Essential documents include: Import Export Code (IEC), Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Shipping Bill, Bill of Lading/Air Waybill, Certificate of Origin, and RCMC. Additional documents may be required based on product type.

How can I track my international shipment?

Use the tracking number provided by your courier on their website. Most international shipping companies offer online tracking. India Post provides international shipping tracking on their official portal.

What are India Post international shipping charges?

India Post offers various international services: Speed Post (₹600-₹2,500 for 500g), International Air Parcel (₹800-₹3,000 per kg), and EMS (₹1,200-₹4,000 per kg). Rates vary by destination and weight.

What items are restricted for export from India?

Restricted items include: wildlife products, ammunition, certain chemicals, SCOMET items, controlled pharmaceuticals, antiques, sandalwood, human blood products, and specific agricultural products. Check DGFT website for complete list.

Where can I find international shipping services near me?

Search online for local freight forwarders, courier offices, or customs house agents. Major courier companies like FedEx, DHL, UPS, DTDC, and Blue Dart have branches across Indian cities.

What are the best international shipping routes from India?

Major routes include: Suez Canal for Europe/USA, Pacific routes for East Asia, Persian Gulf for Middle East, and direct Indian Ocean routes for Africa and Australia. Route selection depends on destination and shipping mode.

How long does international shipping from India take?

Air freight: 3-7 days for express, 7-15 days for standard Sea freight: 15-45 days depending on destination Transit times vary based on customs clearance and route.

Do I need insurance for international shipping?

While not mandatory, insurance is highly recommended to protect against loss, damage, or theft during transit. Most carriers offer insurance options, typically 1-3% of shipment value.

What is the De Minimis value for different countries?

De Minimis values vary: USA ($800), EU (€150), UK (£135), Canada (CAD $20), Australia (AUD $1,000). Shipments below these thresholds may be exempt from customs duties.

Can I ship to multiple countries with one IEC?

Yes, your Import Export Code (IEC) is valid for exporting to any country worldwide. However, you must comply with each destination country’s specific import regulations.

Conclusion: Start Your International Shipping Journey Today

International shipping from India offers tremendous opportunities for business growth and global market access. Success requires understanding documentation, compliance, logistics, and strategic planning.

Your action plan:

Obtain your IEC from DGFT portal
Research target markets and products
Understand export documentation requirements
Choose reliable international shipping partners
Ensure proper packaging and labeling
Stay compliant with regulations
Use technology for tracking and efficiency
Build strong buyer relationships

Ready to take your Indian business global? Start with thorough preparation, choose the right partners, and maintain an unwavering focus on compliance and customer satisfaction.

For more resources:

Visit DGFT official website for IEC registration
Check customs.gov.in for export procedures
Explore trade.gov.in for market intelligence
Join Export Promotion Councils for support

Transform your local business into a global brand through strategic international shipping and export excellence.

Author

Faraz Farooqui