India is one of the world’s fastest-growing export hubs, supplying agricultural products, spices, textiles, and eco-friendly packaging to more than 200 countries.
For global buyers, understanding the Indian export process is essential to avoid delays, compliance risks, and hidden costs. This guide explains the complete export process from India in a clear, step-by-step format for importers and distributors.
Step-by-Step Export Process from India
Step 1: Product Selection & Specification Finalization
Importer and exporter finalize:
- Product grade
- Packaging type
- Labeling requirements
- Quantity & delivery timeline
- Quality standards
Samples and test reports are approved before bulk production.
Step 2: Price Quotation & INCOTERMS
The exporter provides pricing under:
- FOB (Free on Board)
- CIF (Cost, Insurance & Freight)
- DDP (Delivered Duty Paid – selected countries)
Importer confirms:
- Payment terms - 100% Advance, Bank LC at Sight
- Shipment schedule
- Container type (FCL / LCL)
Step 3: Purchase Order & Proforma Invoice
Once price and terms are accepted:
- Buyer issues a Purchase Order (PO)
- Exporter sends a Proforma Invoice (PI)
PI includes:
- HS code
- Product description
- Quantity
- Price
- Payment terms
- Port of loading & discharge
Step 4: Payment Terms
Common export payment methods:
- Advance 100%
- LC at sight or usance
- Balance before shipment
Step 5: Production & Quality Inspection
Exporter:
- Schedules production
- Conducts quality checks
- Shares photos, videos & inspection reports
Step 6: Packaging & Labeling
Export packaging includes:
- Export cartons
- Palletization (if required)
- Product labeling
- Country of origin marking
Step 7: Export Documentation
Mandatory documents:
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Bill of Lading
- Certificate of Origin
- Phytosanitary Certificate (for food)
- Fumigation Certificate (if required)
- Insurance Certificate (for CIF)
Step 8: Customs Clearance & Port Handling
Exporter files:
- Shipping Bill
- GST refund claims
- Export declarations
After customs clearance, the container is loaded on vessel.
Step 9: Shipment & Tracking
Exporter shares:
- BL copy
- Container number
- ETA
- Tracking details
Step 10: Import Clearance & Delivery
Importer:
- Files import documents
- Pays local duty & taxes
- Clears customs
- Receives goods
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Incorrect HS code
- Incomplete documentation
- No pre-shipment inspection
- Unclear payment terms
- Ignoring country import rules
Why Work with Panth Overseas?
Panth Overseas manages the entire export process for:
- Eco-friendly paper cups
- Indian spices & seeds
We provide:
- Verified sourcing
- Quality assurance
- Export documentation
- Competitive pricing
- Global logistics
Conclusion
Understanding the export process from India helps importers reduce risks and build long-term sourcing partnerships. With the right exporter, India becomes a reliable and profitable sourcing destination.