logo

What is Customs Clearance?

Customs clearance is a process in which imported or exported goods are officially approved by the country's customs authorities by verifying compliance with rules and regulations, calculating applicable duties and taxes, and checking required documents. Without this process, goods cannot cross borders. It is a very important and regulated part of trade that ensures legal compliance and smooth movement of goods.


Key Topic Index

  • What is Customs Clearance?
  • Understanding the Customs Clearance Process
  • Required Documents for Customs Clearance
  • Benefits for Exporters and Importers
  • Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
  • How Does Make Merchant Help?
table content image

Understanding the Customs Clearance Process

The process starts with obtaining an Importer Exporter Code (IEC) from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). Then, for imports, a Bill of Entry is filed, and for exports, a Shipping Bill is filed, mentioning all details like value, quantity, and origin of goods.

Customs authorities verify these documents, may conduct physical examination if necessary, and assess applicable customs duties and GST. After payment of duties, the goods receive customs clearance, after which delivery is made to you.

Required Documents for Customs Clearance

  • Importer Exporter Code (IEC)
  • Bill of Entry (for imports) / Shipping Bill (for exports)
  • Commercial Invoice
  • Packing List
  • Bill of Lading (Sea Freight) or Airway Bill (Air Freight)
  • Certificate of Origin (if preferential duty applies)
  • Import/Export Licenses (as required by goods)

Benefits for Exporters and Importers

  • Legal and regulatory compliance, protecting you from penalties
  • Quick and smooth shipment clearance, speeding up the supply chain
  • Professional assistance with customs clearance, reducing delays
  • Cost savings through accurate documentation and timely clearance, lowering storage/demurrage charges
  • Increased business credibility and stronger relations with international traders

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Usually 2 to 4 days, depending on goods and documentation.

No, Make Merchant handles the entire process for you.

Duties are assessed based on declared value, classification (HSN code), and country of origin.

Yes, you cannot import or export without an IEC.

Goods may be held, fined, or seized.

How Does Make Merchant Help?

Customs clearance is a critical yet often complicated part of international trade, especially for merchants looking to expand their businesses across borders. At Make Merchant, we understand the challenges you face—from navigating complex regulations to handling extensive paperwork and ensuring timely deliveries. That’s why we offer dedicated customs clearance services designed specifically to simplify this process for merchants like you.

Our team of experienced customs brokers, with over 30 years of expertise in Indian Customs laws, takes care of every step—from accurate duty assessment and bill of entry preparation to proper weighing, marking, and labelling of your goods. We work closely with customs officials to ensure smooth cargo examinations and quick clearance, avoiding costly delays that can disrupt your supply chain.

When you want to launch your business, Make Merchant is where it's at!

Partnering with Make Merchant means you save valuable time and reduce operational costs, as we ensure hassle-free movement of your imports and exports. Our service also includes coordinating swift dispatch and delivery once customs clearance is done, so your products reach their destination promptly. With our trusted expertise, merchants gain confidence and peace of mind, knowing that their customs processes are handled efficiently and compliantly from start to finish. Through this process, Make Merchant becomes your trusted partner, making customs clearance easy and secure for smooth international trade.

logo

We are a one-stop solution for businesses that wish to grow and move from local to global

Contact Info

Office Address

Address: 308, 3rd floor, bheema complex, nirman vihar , east delhi, delhi 110092