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What is a shipping bill? Meaning, types, working, format, and how to apply
When exporting from India, it is critical to obtain the right shipping bill based on your product and destination. Learn more about its uses, benefits, and working in the blog.
A shipping bill is one of the most important documents in export trade, as it enables an exporter to obtain customs clearance and initiate the international shipping process. Since safe and timely delivery is essential in global trade, this document ensures that goods are legally permitted to leave the country. In this blog, we break down what a shipping bill is, its purpose, the application process, and the different types of shipping bills exporters should know.
What is shipping bill?
A shipping bill is an important document that an exporter must obtain from the customs department before shipping products out of the country. When exporting, the seller must follow the prescribed procedures, submit required documents, and secure customs clearances. After the shipping bill is filed, Customs examines the goods and documents and, once satisfied, issues a Let Export Order (LEO), which is the final legal approval required for export. The process is completed when Customs determines the net value of the goods on the shipping bill and signs and seals the document through an authorized officer.1
What are the uses of shipping bill?
A shipping bill serves multiple critical functions in the export process, making it one of the most important documents required by customs and regulatory authorities. Its uses include:
1. Clearing customs: It is essential for clearing goods through Indian Customs.
2. Authenticating export goods: Customs mandates it to verify and validate exported products.
3. Facilitating loading of goods: Exporters need a shipping bill to load cargo onto the vessel.
4. Claiming excise duty refunds: It enables exporters to receive eligible excise refunds.
5. Claiming duty drawback: It is required to process duty drawback claims.
6. Assessing the value of goods: Customs uses it to determine the net value of exports.
7. Reporting foreign remittance: RBI mandates exporters to submit foreign exchange receipts along with the shipping bill.2
Types of shipping bills in export
Different types of shipping bills are used depending on the nature of the goods and the export requirements, each serving a specific purpose in the customs clearance process:
Dutiable shipping bill:
Used for exports where export duty is payable on the goods. This bill is printed on yellow paper and Customs charges any applicable export duties.
Drawback shipping bill:
Used when the exporter intends to claim a duty drawback — a refund of customs duties paid on imported inputs used in the exported product. It’s printed on green paper (and may revert to white once drawback is paid).
Ex-bond shipping bill:
Used when goods imported earlier and stored in a bonded warehouse are re-exported. The bill for such exports is often colour-coded pink.
Export promotion shipping bill:
Filed when goods are exported under government incentive schemes. It enables exporters to claim benefits such as duty credits or rebates linked to eligible export performance.3
Color-coding of shipping bills
Based on the nature of goods and export benefits claimed, different types of shipping bills are issued:
● White shipping bill: Used for duty-free goods that are not eligible for export incentives.
● Green shipping bill: Filed for goods eligible for export incentives such as duty drawback.
● Yellow shipping bill: Required for exporting goods on which export duty is applicable.
● Blue shipping bill: Used for goods exported under promotion schemes like Advance License.
● Pink shipping bill: Filed for exports under the DEPB scheme (now replaced by other incentive schemes).4
How does a shipping bill work?
The processing of a shipping bill follows a series of structured steps to ensure accurate documentation and smooth customs clearance during export:
1. Register details with Customs: The exporter registers their IEC, CHA licence number, and AD code with Customs.
2. Submit documents: A signed declaration, along with the invoice and packing list, is submitted at the service centre by the exporter or authorised CHA.
3. Review checklist and submit: After data entry, the service centre generates a checklist and hands it to the exporter. The exporter reviews and confirms the accuracy of the details in the checklist. The information is them processed automatically by the system.
4. Complete assessment: The Assistant Commissioner (Exports) assesses the shipping bill if the shipment value exceeds ₹10 lakh, includes free samples over ₹20,000, or has a drawback claim above ₹1 lakh. If queries arise, the exporter must submit clarifications through the service centre.
5. Submit documents: At the docks, the exporter or CHA submits all original documents, including the invoice and packing list, along with the checklist.
6. Get Let Export Order: If everything is found in order, the proper officer issues the Let Export Order (LEO).
7. Print final shipping bill: After the LEO is granted, the final shipping bill is printed.
What are the contents of a shipping bill?
Typically, a shipping bill includes:
● Exporter details: Basic information such as the exporter’s name, IEC number, and registered address.
● Consignee information: Details of the overseas buyer, including their name, address, and destination country.
● Nature of consignment: A clear description of the goods being exported, including the product name, type, and full specifications.
● HS Code: The 8-digit classification code used by customs to identify the product for compliance, incentives, and duty assessment.
● Type of shipping bill: Indicates the category under which the goods are exported, which determines how customs will process the shipment.
● Mode of transport: Specifies whether the goods will be shipped by air, sea, or land.
● LUT/Bond details: Required when exporting without paying GST, with relevant bond or LUT information included here.6
Format of a shipping bill
Here is a sample of what a shipping bill can typically look like.7
Documents required for shipping bill
To file a shipping bill, exporters must submit a set of mandatory documents required for starting customs clearance. These include:
● Invoice and packing list
● GST invoice
● Bill of lading or air waybill
● Declaration of origin
● Export order or letter of credit
● AD Code registration
● Importer-Exporter Code (IEC)
● Authorised Dealer bank certificate (optional)8
Online process for filing shipping bill
With the digitization of India’s customs ecosystem, exporters can now file for shipping bill online, eliminating the need for manual paperwork and in-person submissions. The digital filing system enables exporters to upload documents electronically, enter shipment details through a secure portal, and track the status of their shipping bill in real time. This system integrates with customs, ports, and banks, ensuring faster processing, fewer errors, and greater transparency. By shifting to a digital workflow, exporters benefit from quicker approvals, simplified compliance, and seamless coordination across various stakeholders involved in export operations.9
Online process for filing shipping bill with ICEGATE
Indian government’s digital initiatives have now enabled exporters to file shipping bills online using the ICEGATE (Indian Customs Electronic Data Interchange Gateway) portal. Here is an overview of the process:
Step 1: Register on ICEGATE
Go to https://www.icegate.gov.in and create an account using your IEC and PAN numbers. Upload a valid Digital Signature Certificate (DSC).
Step 2: Upload export documents
Submit the commercial invoice, packing list, and other export documents. Also provide details such as HSN code, product value, destination, etc.
Step 3: File the shipping bill
Choose the correct shipping bill category and fill out the form with the required information. You can submit the application online.
Step 4: Customs review & RMS check
Customs officials review the information submitted. The Risk Management System (RMS) may select the shipment for assessment or inspection.
Step 5: Obtain Let Export Order (LEO)
Once approved, the LEO is issued. The cargo is cleared for loading at the designated port.10
How to generate shipping bill?
You can obtain your shipping bill from ICEGATE by following these steps:
Step 1: Register with Customs
Sign up on the ICEGATE portal using your IEC, CHA licence number, and the AD Code of the bank through which export proceeds will be received.
Step 2: Log in to ICEGATE
Access your account and enter all required details, including exporter and consignee information, item description, and shipment particulars.
Step 3: Review the checklist
After submitting the details and documents, the system generates a checklist that you must verify.
Step 4: Obtain the Let Export Order (LEO)
Customs authorities review your submission, and once approved, issue the LEO.
Step 5: Ensure EGM filing
The shipping line or carrier must file the Export General Manifest before the final shipping bill can be printed.
Step 6: Download the shipping bill
Go to the ICEGATE portal → Services → Document Download → Shipping Bill. Enter details like the shipping bill number, date, and port code (if required) to download the PDF.
You can also access and download your shipping bill through the DGFT’s shipping bill status page by entering your shipping bill number or IEC with the applicable date range.11
You can also access and download your shipping bill through the DGFT’s shipping bill status page by entering your shipping bill number or IEC with the applicable date range.11
Conclusion
A shipping bill is an essential document in India’s export process, serving as the foundation for customs clearance, regulatory compliance, and smooth cargo movement. From determining export eligibility to enabling duty benefits, it plays a crucial role at every stage of international shipping. With the government’s shift toward digital systems like ICEGATE, filing and tracking shipping bills has become faster, more transparent, and significantly more convenient for exporters. By understanding the types, format, required documents, and step-by-step filing process, exporters can avoid delays, ensure compliance, and streamline their global trade operations with confidence.
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Registered sellers can choose to ship their products by themselves through Merchant Fulfilled Network (MFN) or they can opt for Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) and outsource order fulfillment 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. How can I get an export shipping bill?
You can apply for a shipping bill by registering on ICEGATE and submitting required documents, along with the application.
2. Who prepares the shipping bill?
This is prepared by the Customs authority after an exporter applies for it.
3. What is the difference between the bill of lading and a shipping bill?
A shipping bill is a bill for shipment needed for custom clearance while you are exporting products. Bill of lading is issued by the shipping company to the transporter when the transporter loads goods to the ship.
4. What is the difference between a shipping bill and a bill of entry?
A shipping bill is used to declare the quantity, value, and nature of goods being exported. In contrast, a bill of lading serves as proof that the carrier has received the goods and confirms they will be delivered to the designated recipient.
Published on July 12, 2022.
Updated on December 18, 2025.
Sources:
1. https://cleartax.in/s/shipping-bill
2. https://eximpe.com/blog/exim/what-is-shipping-bill
3. https://eximpe.com/blog/exim/what-is-shipping-bill
4. https://globaxsolutions.com/shipping-bill-process-for-export-india/
5. https://cleartax.in/s/shipping-bill
6. https://www.infinityapp.in/blog/what-is-a-shipping-bill-in-export
7. https://www.infinityapp.in/blog/what-is-a-shipping-bill-in-export
8. https://globaxsolutions.com/shipping-bill-process-for-export-india/
9. https://www.infinityapp.in/blog/what-is-a-shipping-bill-in-export
10. https://www.credlix.com/blogs/how-to-file-a-shipping-bill-online
11. https://www.infinityapp.in/blog/what-is-a-shipping-bill-in-export
Updated on December 18, 2025.
Sources:
1. https://cleartax.in/s/shipping-bill
2. https://eximpe.com/blog/exim/what-is-shipping-bill
3. https://eximpe.com/blog/exim/what-is-shipping-bill
4. https://globaxsolutions.com/shipping-bill-process-for-export-india/
5. https://cleartax.in/s/shipping-bill
6. https://www.infinityapp.in/blog/what-is-a-shipping-bill-in-export
7. https://www.infinityapp.in/blog/what-is-a-shipping-bill-in-export
8. https://globaxsolutions.com/shipping-bill-process-for-export-india/
9. https://www.infinityapp.in/blog/what-is-a-shipping-bill-in-export
10. https://www.credlix.com/blogs/how-to-file-a-shipping-bill-online
11. https://www.infinityapp.in/blog/what-is-a-shipping-bill-in-export
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