Which export documents these tools make
An export from India passes through several hands, and each one asks for its own paper. These free tools cover the documents the exporter prepares, in the order a shipment usually needs them.
| Document | When you need it | Who reads it |
|---|---|---|
| Proforma invoice | When the buyer agrees to the price, before the order is final | The buyer and the buyer's bank |
| Commercial invoice | When the goods are ready to ship | Customs in both countries, the bank and the buyer |
| Packing list | With the commercial invoice | Customs, the carrier and the buyer's warehouse |
| GST tax invoice | For the export supply, on payment of IGST or under LUT | Your GST records and any refund claim |
| Shipping instructions | Before the carrier's SI cut-off | The shipping line or forwarder drafting the bill of lading |
| VGM declaration | Before a container is loaded on the ship | The shipping line and the terminal |
| Carton labels | When the goods are packed | Everyone who handles the cartons |
What the free tools do not make
Some export documents can't come from a form, because another party issues them. Your customs broker files the shipping bill on ICEGATE, the carrier issues the bill of lading or air waybill, and an authorised agency issues the certificate of origin. The tools here give those parties correct details to work from.
Check before you send
Each tool lists what is missing and what is worth a second look before it sends the PDF, such as an HS code that isn't 8 digits or a missing IEC. You are still responsible for the details, so check each document against your order and your buyer's or bank's instructions.