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How to Start Exporting from Punjab: A Step-by-Step Guide

Punjab's manufacturers make goods that sell all over the world, but the first export shipment can feel like a maze of codes and forms. Here are the steps in order, from registration to your goods leaving the port.

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1. Register as an exporter

  • Get your Importer Exporter Code (IEC) online from the DGFT
  • Register your bank's AD code with customs at the port or ICD you'll use
  • File a GST Letter of Undertaking (LUT) to export without paying IGST
  • Join your export promotion council (RCMC) if you want export benefits

2. Get your product ready

  • Find the right HS code: it decides duty, rules and paperwork at both ends
  • Check the destination's rules for your product, such as labelling, certificates or bans
  • Plan export-grade packing: pallets, cartons and ISPM-15 wood

3. Price and agree terms

Choose the Incoterm, such as FOB, CIF or DDP, before you quote, because it decides which costs are in your price. Agree payment terms with your buyer too: an advance payment or a letter of credit is safer for a first order with a new buyer.

4. Book and ship

Your freight forwarder quotes the freight, books the shipping line or airline, arranges packing and stuffing, files the shipping bill with customs and sends you the bill of lading once the goods are loaded. You send the documents to your buyer or bank as agreed.

PH Logistics India does all of this from our office in Ludhiana for exporters across Punjab, with agent partners at every major Indian port and ICD and in more than 100 countries.

Common questions

How long does it take to get an IEC?

The IEC application is online on the DGFT website and is usually issued quickly once your PAN, bank and business details are verified.

Do I need a CHA to export?

Shipping bills are filed through a licensed customs broker (CHA) in most cases. PH Logistics India handles customs clearance as part of the service.

Can you help with my first export shipment?

Yes. Tell us what you are shipping and where, and we'll take you through the documents, packing, freight and customs step by step.

Services that help

Customs Clearance (CHA) Import and export customs clearance at ports and ICDs, from Ludhiana.
Ocean Freight (FCL & LCL) Full and shared container shipping worldwide from every major Indian port.
Packing, Lashing & Stuffing Container stuffing, belt lashing, wooden framing, fumigation and documentation.
Door-to-Door (DAP & DDP) One provider from your factory in Punjab to your buyer's door abroad.

Read next

Export documents checklist Every document an Indian export shipment needs.
FCL vs LCL: which should you choose? How to pick the cheaper, safer option for your volume.

More guides

Export documents checklist Every document an Indian export shipment needs, and who prepares it.
FCL vs LCL Full container or shared container: how to choose for your volume.
Incoterms explained EXW, FOB, CIF, DAP and DDP: who pays for what, in plain English.
Import customs clearance in India Bill of entry, duties, examination and release, step by step.

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or email info@phlindia.com