What Export Documents Does Your Granite Shipment Need?

Missing or incorrect export documentation is one of the most common — and costly — problems in granite import. Consignments held at customs, duty miscalculations and insurance claim denials can all result from documentation errors. This checklist covers every document typically required for a granite shipment from India.

Core Shipping Documents (Required for Every Shipment)

1. Commercial Invoice

The commercial invoice is the primary document of a granite shipment. It must include:

• Exporter and importer names, addresses and GST/VAT numbers
• Date of invoice and unique invoice number
• Full description of goods (stone variety, finish, dimensions, quantity)
• Unit price, total value and currency
• Incoterm and named port
• Country of origin (India)
• HS code (typically 2516 for granite)

2. Packing List

A detailed packing list must accompany every shipment, showing:

• Number of wooden crates or bundles
• Contents of each crate (slab dimensions, quantity, variety)
• Gross weight and net weight per crate
• Total gross weight and net weight of consignment
• Container number(s)

3. Bill of Lading (B/L)

The Bill of Lading is the contract between the shipper and the ocean carrier. It serves as proof of shipment, a receipt for goods and a document of title. For most granite imports, a negotiable B/L is required for bank transactions. Ensure the description of goods on the B/L matches the commercial invoice exactly.

Origin and Compliance Documents

4. Certificate of Origin

A Certificate of Origin (CoO) certifies that the granite was quarried and processed in India. It is issued by the Chamber of Commerce and is required by most importing countries for customs clearance and duty assessment. Some countries (particularly those with trade agreements with India) require a specific form of CoO (e.g., FORM A for GSP preferences).

5. GST Invoice (Export Invoice)

Indian exporters must issue a GST-compliant export invoice with their GSTIN number. Ensure the LUT (Letter of Undertaking) or bond reference is noted on the invoice if the shipment is zero-rated for GST purposes.

Customs and Regulatory Documents

6. Shipping Bill

The Shipping Bill is the Indian customs export declaration, filed electronically through the ICEGATE system. It includes the IEC (Import Export Code) of the exporter and all consignment details.

7. Let Export Order (LEO)

The LEO is the customs clearance confirmation from Indian customs, confirming that the consignment has been examined (if applicable) and cleared for export. It is required for post-shipment documentation.

Optional but Recommended Documents