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What is Out of Charge in customs (OOC)? A guide to check OOC status
Out of Charge (OOC) in customs shows the inspection clearance status of goods for export. Learn more about its meaning and process to check status in this blog.
Customs clearance for exports can be complex and challenging as it involves multiple compliances and procedures. One key step in this process is obtaining Out of Charge (OOC), an essential authorization that allows the release of goods from customs, making them available for import or export. Understanding what OOC is in customs can help prevent unnecessary delays and ensure smooth shipping operations. This blog post explains the meaning of OOC in customs, where to check OOC status, and the steps involved in the OOC process to help exporters manage their customs clearances efficiently.
What does customs mean by Out of Charge (OOC)?
Out of Charge (OOC) in customs is an important status that signifies the completion of inspections by customs authorities, resulting in the clearance of goods for import or export. This designation verifies that the goods have met regulatory standards, all applicable customs duties have been settled, and the shipment is ready to advance to the next phase of distribution or export. The OOC process plays a vital role in minimizing delays and ensuring the efficient processing of goods following customs regulations.
Key takeaways
About Out of Charge:
● Primary purpose: Confirms clearance for goods that comply with customs standards.
● Final step: Enables the goods to be released and shipped to their final destination.
● Primary purpose: Confirms clearance for goods that comply with customs standards.
● Final step: Enables the goods to be released and shipped to their final destination.
Where to check OOC status?
Once the necessary paperwork has been submitted and the customs inspection completed, the OOC status can typically be retrieved from the official customs website or a system specific to the port or airport where the goods were processed for OOC.
One of the main sources for tracking customs status in India, including OOC, is the ICEGATE (Indian Customs Electronic Gateway) portal. This government-authorized online platform enables importers, exporters, and logistics professionals to track their shipments in real-time.
One of the main sources for tracking customs status in India, including OOC, is the ICEGATE (Indian Customs Electronic Gateway) portal. This government-authorized online platform enables importers, exporters, and logistics professionals to track their shipments in real-time.
How to access OOC status on the ICEGATE portal?
The following steps provide an overview of how to check OOC status on ICEGATE:
• Step 1: Visit the ICEGATE website
Access the ICEGATE portal by visiting www.icegate.gov.in, which serves as India’s digital customs gateway.
• Step 2: Log in with valid credentials
Log in using your registered credentials, which may include a username, password, and other verification details to ensure data security.
• Step 3: Locate the shipment details
Once logged in, navigate to the tracking section. Enter the relevant shipment information, such as the bill of entry number, shipping bill, or other tracking numbers assigned to the goods.
• Step 4: Review OOC status
The OOC status, along with other critical shipment details, will be displayed on the portal. A status of “Out of Charge” indicates customs clearance is complete.
Process of obtaining OOC
Obtaining an OOC involves a few steps, throughout which all customs regulations should be followed:
Submission of documents
Customs examination
Verification and duty payments
Receiving OOC status
The shipment and related documents will be physically inspected by customs officials to confirm regulatory compliance.
Importers and exporters have to pay any custom duties or fees due. OOC status will not be issued until full payment has been verified.
Customs will issue the OOC status once goods have been inspected and are clear to be released after duties are paid.3
Difference between Let Export Order (LEO) and Out of Charge (OOC)
Aspect
Let Export Order (LEO)
Out of Charge (OOC)
Purpose
Allows goods to proceed for export out of the country
Releases goods from customs control for import or export
Applicable to
Only export shipments
Both import and export shipments
Stage in process
Initial export clearance
Final customs clearance before goods leave or enter a country
Authority granted
Authorizes goods to be loaded for international shipping
Approves goods for exit or entry into the country
Key requirements
Compliance with export formalities
Completion of customs duty payment and inspection4
Conclusion
Understanding the OOC process is crucial for ensuring smooth customs clearance and optimizing logistics. By grasping the concept of OOC in customs, exporters can avoid potential delays and enhance shipping efficiency, thereby improving their overall operations. For businesses looking to expand into international markets, Amazon Global Selling is an excellent program that supports Indian exporters by providing expert assistance and resources.
Amazon Global Selling: Easy e-commerce exports and hassle-free shipping
If you are a business owner and you want to sell your products to the world, Amazon Global Selling enables you to list and sell ‘Made in India’ products on 18 Amazon global marketplaces. As an e-commerce export program, Amazon Global Selling provides support and guidance at every step of your export journey, connecting you to Amazon’s Service Provider Network for tailored compliance, payments, and logistics support.
Registered sellers can choose to ship their products by themselves through Merchant Fulfilled Network (MFN) or they can opt for fulfilment by Amazon (FBA) and outsource order fulfilment to Amazon including packing, storage, delivery, and returns. Amazon Global Selling simplifies the process of international shipping to the world, helping businesses navigate customs and reach a vast audience.
Registered sellers can choose to ship their products by themselves through Merchant Fulfilled Network (MFN) or they can opt for fulfilment by Amazon (FBA) and outsource order fulfilment to Amazon including packing, storage, delivery, and returns. Amazon Global Selling simplifies the process of international shipping to the world, helping businesses navigate customs and reach a vast audience.
Published on January 17, 2024.
Sources:
1. https://dov.gov.in/clearance-procedure
2. https://www.indiafilings.com/learn/fetching-of-bill-of-entry-details-from-icegate-portal/
3. https://dov.gov.in/clearance-procedure
4. https://www.taxilla.com/insights/digital-procedure-for-let-export-order-leo-and-egatepass-copy-of-shipping-bill-implemented
Sources:
1. https://dov.gov.in/clearance-procedure
2. https://www.indiafilings.com/learn/fetching-of-bill-of-entry-details-from-icegate-portal/
3. https://dov.gov.in/clearance-procedure
4. https://www.taxilla.com/insights/digital-procedure-for-let-export-order-leo-and-egatepass-copy-of-shipping-bill-implemented
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*Map not to scale. The map has been used for design and representational purpose only, it does not depict the geographical boundaries of the country. These do not conform to the external boundaries of India recognized by the Survey of India.
*Map not to scale. The map has been used for design and representational purpose only, it does not depict the geographical boundaries of the country. These do not conform to the external boundaries of India recognized by the Survey of India.
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