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Here's a more detailed expansion of each stage of customs clearance, along with a
few additional steps and considerations that importers commonly deal with.
1. Document Preparation (Pre-arrival stage)
This step is critical because errors can delay clearance. Common documents include:
● Commercial Invoice: Price, product description, seller/buyer details
● Packing List: Weight, dimensions, packaging details
● Bill of Lading / Airway Bill: Issued by the shipping line/airline; acts as proof of
shipment
● Import License: Needed for controlled/restricted goods
● Insurance Certificate: Proof of marine or cargo insurance
● Certificate of Origin: For claiming preferential duty under trade agreements (like
ASEAN-India FTA)
2. Filing the Customs Declaration (Bill of Entry)
The importer or customs broker files a Bill of Entry (BoE) in the customs portal.
● It can be filed before the arrival of goods (advance filing).
● Data entered includes:
○ HS Code
○ Country of origin
○ Value of goods (FOB/CIF)
○ Port of shipment and discharge
○ Details of duties payable
Once filed, the customs system assigns a risk category for assessment (Green, Yellow,
Red channel).
3. Duty Assessment & Payment
Customs authorities verify:
● Correct classification under the Harmonized System (HS Code)
● Accurate valuation (to avoid under-invoicing)
● Applicable duties:
○ Basic Customs Duty (BCD)
○ Integrated GST (IGST)
○ Social Welfare Surcharge
○ Anti-dumping duty (if applicable)
The importer pays the duties through an online portal (e.g., ICEGATE in India).
4. Risk Assessment & Examination (If Applicable
Based on risk level:
● Green Channel – Automatic clearance without examination
● Yellow Channel – Document verification only
● Red Channel – Full physical inspection of goods
Customs officers may check for:
● Compliance with import restrictions
● Proper labeling (e.g., FSSAI for food products, BIS for electronics)
● Samples for lab testing (in case of sensitive goods)
5. Goods Release (Out of Charge)
After successful verification and payment:
● Customs gives “Out of Charge” (OOC) status
● Importer receives a Release Order
● The goods are handed over by the Custodian (port, airport, or CFS/ICD)
6. Delivery and Post-Clearance
● Importer arranges for transportation from the port/warehouse to their business
location
● Goods are entered into inventory
● Importer must maintain all customs documents for several years
● Customs may conduct Post-Clearance Audit (PCA) to verify past shipments for any
fraud or duty
● E-way bill or equivalent may be required for interstate transport (in countries like
India).
● Importers should check import policy conditions (DGFT in India) before placing an
order.
● Using a licensed Customs House Agent (CHA) can help navigate this procdure