Customs clearance for India
We take care of the complete customs clearance for shipments to and from India. Trade zone: Derde land zonder akkoord. AEO-F certified, experienced with pharmaceuticals, textiles, gemstones, machinery, IT hardware.
Customs India at a glance
India · Asia
- pharmaceuticals
- textiles
- gemstones
- machinery
- IT hardware
For customs clearance between the Netherlands and India specific rules apply. Aircargo.nl handles daily shipments to and from India, especially in product categories pharmaceuticals, textiles, gemstones, machinery, IT hardware. Our AEO-F status (NL AEOF 0002440) ensures faster processing times and a lower chance of physical inspections.
Below you will find the specific customs details for India: trade regime, origin documents, typical processing times, and which documents are needed for smooth clearance.
Specific customs rules regarding India
No free trade agreement between the EU and India (in negotiation for years). Standard MFN tariffs apply. Indian Customs (CBIC) is known for rigorous document checks and a tendency toward physical inspections. For Dutch exports to India: detailed IEC code of the importer, correct HS code, and accurate valuation are essential. Anti-dumping measures are active in India mainly against certain Chinese products — not relevant for EU export.
Typical documents for India
Commercial invoice with the Indian importer’s IEC code, packing list, Air Waybill, Certificate of Origin (issued by Chamber of Commerce), and possibly permits for specific goods (BIS certification for electronics).
Aircargo.nl prepares these documents under our own authorization as an AEO-F customs broker. For Authorized Consignor shipments (ACR), export freight can depart immediately without delay at a customs office.
Key customs figures India
Customs clearance by type of goods for India
Frequently asked questions about customs clearance India
How do I arrange customs clearance for imports from India?
We handle the import declaration through DMS under our AEO-F authorization. With correct documentation, release usually occurs within a few hours. When possible, we arrange pre-arrival declarations so your shipment doesn’t sit idle unnecessarily.
And for exports from the Netherlands to India?
Under our ACR license (Authorized Consignor), export shipments can depart directly from our or your location. For preferential tariffs in India, we prepare the correct origin document: factuurverklaring.
Can I pay import duties in a consolidated manner?
Under our DPO license (Deferred Payment), you can settle import duties and VAT grouped — monthly instead of per shipment. This provides a direct cash flow advantage for regular import flows from India.
How long does customs clearance take between the Netherlands and India?
Typically 4-10 hours at Schiphol; on the Indian side, processing can take longer if inspections are required. Our AEO-F status ensures priority handling and a lower rate of physical inspections.
What if I’m not established in the EU?
For clients located outside the EU, we act as indirect representative under our customs broker authorization. Learn more on our representation page.
Shipment to or from India?
Send us your shipment details for customs clearance between the Netherlands and India. We respond within 4 hours with a fixed price.