The Shipping Bill is the primary customs document required to export goods from India. Here is everything a handicraft vendor or B2B buyer needs to know before their first international shipment.

A Certificate of Origin proves your goods were made in India — and can save your international buyer thousands in import duties under Free Trade Agreements. Here is everything you need to know.

The Import Export Code (IEC) is the 10-digit licence required to export or import goods from India. Without it, no bank will process your export payment and no customs authority will clear your shipment.

The Bill of Lading is both a shipping receipt and a document of title — whoever holds the original can take delivery of the goods. For B2B buyers of Indian handicrafts, understanding the B/L is critical to securing your shipment.

The commercial invoice is the single most important document in any export transaction. A correctly structured invoice speeds up customs clearance and protects both exporter and buyer. Here is exactly what it must contain.

FOB, CIF, EXW, DDP — Incoterms determine who pays freight, who arranges insurance, and at what point risk transfers from seller to buyer. Choosing the wrong one can cost thousands of dollars.

Using the wrong HS code on your export documents can result in wrong import duties, customs holds, or loss of GST refunds. This guide covers the correct HS codes for every major Indian handicraft category.

Exports from India are zero-rated under GST — meaning you should not pay IGST on exported goods. But if you do, you are entitled to a full refund. Here is how the system works and how to ensure you receive every rupee back.

Poor packing is the leading cause of damage claims and insurance disputes in handicraft exports. Correct labelling is required by customs law. This guide covers both — so your goods arrive safely and clear customs without issues.

A Letter of Credit is the gold standard of payment security in international trade. For large handicraft orders from new buyers in unfamiliar markets, an LC guarantees payment as long as you submit the right documents. Here is how it works.