The Indian government has also actively undertaken the initiative to digitize the trade and customs processes. The e-SANCHIT portal is one of the largest leaps in that direction because importers, exporters, and customs brokers are able to upload supporting documentation electronically onto a completely online portal. Before this system was in place, businesses had to submit hard copy documentation in person at customs locations, which caused delays, increased costs, and inefficiencies. Now with e-SANCHIT, businesses can document online quickly than before because it has the SWIFT (Single Window Interface for Facilitating Trade) system fully integrated and legalised for non-paper documentation purposes.
This blog will discuss what e-SANCHIT is, how it works, how it benefits traders and customs, and finally, provide step-by-step instructions to use the portal.
What is e-SANCHIT?
e-SANCHIT denotes Electronic Storage and Computerized Handling of Indirect Tax documents. It is an online platform launched by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs.
The platform allows traders, importers, exporters, and customs brokers to –
- Upload digitized signed documents electronically.
- Provide the necessary documents required to support import Bills of Entry and export Shipping Bills.
- Avoid the physical paper submission at Customs.
Simply put, e-SANCHIT is specifically made for facilitating the customs clearance process to be faster, transparent, and paperless.
Main Features of e-SANCHIT Portal
1. 100% Digital Document Submission
Supporting documents do not need to be submitted in hard copy.
They will be uploaded and stored in digital format.
2. ICEGATE Integration
e-SANCHIT is a part of ICEGATE (Indian Customs Electronic Gateway); it will be available to any registered importer, exporter, or broker on ICEGATE.
3. Digital Signature
All documents uploaded must have a digital signature via a DSC (Digital Signature Certificate).
4. Role Based Functionality
Importers, exporters, and customs brokers can upload documents; customs can view and process the documents live online.
5. Single Window Interface (SWIFT) Integration
e-SANCHIT offers integration with other regulatory bodies (see FSSAI, Drug Controller, Plant Quarantine, etc.) to make approvals seamless.
Documents That Can Be Uploaded on e-SANCHIT
Some common supporting documents required for customs clearance include –
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Bill of Lading / Airway Bill
- Certificate of Origin
- Insurance Certificate
- Import Licenses / Permits
- Test Certificates (for restricted items)
- Purchase Order / Letter of Credit
- Regulatory NOC from bodies like FSSAI, AQCS, DGFT, etc.
How to Use e-SANCHIT Portal – Step by Step?
Step 1: Register on ICEGATE
- Visit https://icegate.gov.in
- Importers, exporters, and brokers need to register using their IEC and a valid email ID.
Step 2. Log In to e-SANCHIT
- Log in using your ICEGATE login credentials.
- Select e-SANCHIT from the services menu options.
Step 3. Upload Documents
- Select the type of document from the dropdown.
- Upload the scanned PDF copy (maximum size is usually 1 MB), per file.
- Digitally sign the document using DSC.
Step 4. Generate Document Reference Number (IRN)
- Upon uploading, the system generates a Unique Document Reference Number (IRN) for each file.
- The IRN will need to be linked to the Bill of Entry or Shipping Bill.
Step 5: Submit with Customs Declaration
- When the Bill of Entry or Shipping Bill is filed, the IRN will be entered in the declaration form.
- The customs officers can directly access the documents online.
Advantages of e-SANCHIT
- Save time – Speeding up clearance by eliminating manual checks.
- Cost saving – Avoiding couriers or physically carrying papers.
- Increased transparency – Digital trail minimizes the chances of documents being tampered with.
- Single platform – Both customs and regulatory approvals can be submitted.
- Environmentally friendly – Reduced paper consumption.
Issues for Users
- Initial technical set-up for e-SANCHIT (configuration of digital signature).
- File sizes are limited depending on their compression.
- Upload requires a stable internet connection.
- Need to train first-time users (especially small exporters).
Who Can Access e-SANCHIT?
- Importers & Exporters: To upload all supporting customs documents.
- Customs Brokers (CHA): To manage documentation for clients.
- Regulatory Authorities: To issue approvals online and verify approval.
Conclusion
The e-SANCHIT portal is a significant step towards India’s goal of an environment of Digital Customs. By eliminating paperwork and permitting electronic submission of documentation, e-SANCHIT not only enhances the ease of doing business in India, but it also brings India’s trading processes to the international standard.
Importers and exporters must now become familiar with e-SANCHIT; it is not an option, it is a must. By integrating e-SANCHIT into ICEGATE and SWIFT, quicker clearance, reduced cost and complete transparency are achieved for all importing and exporting.
If you are involved in international trade, now is the time for you to begin utilizing e-SANCHIT, upgrading your systems, and training your team for paperless customs compliance.
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