For international brands sourcing from India for the first time, the export documentation process can seem complex. In practice, most experienced Indian manufacturers handle the majority of it — your main responsibility is providing accurate import information from your end.
Here's how the process works end to end.
Export documents — what each one is
Shipping options — India to international
What you need to provide to your manufacturer
- Your company name, address, and country — for the commercial invoice
- Consignee details — the person/entity receiving goods in your country
- Notify party details — your customs broker or freight forwarder if different from consignee
- Port of destination — the sea port or airport you want goods shipped to
- Preferred Incoterms — FOB (you arrange shipping) or CIF/CIP (manufacturer arranges)
- Import country HS code — your customs broker can provide this for your import declaration
- Any special labelling requirements — country of origin label format, care label language
FOB vs CIF — which Incoterm to use
FOB (Free On Board): The manufacturer delivers goods to the port of origin. You arrange and pay for shipping from there. Better if you have an established freight forwarder — you control shipping cost and timing.
CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight): The manufacturer arranges and pays for shipping to your destination port. Simpler for first-time importers — one less thing to coordinate. Usually slightly more expensive than arranging your own freight.
We handle exports — your goods, our paperwork
The Urban Charm regularly exports garments to UAE, Africa, UK, and USA. We handle all export documentation, work with reliable freight forwarders, and can arrange air or sea shipping. MOQ from 200 pcs. Contact us for a quote that includes shipping to your location.
Get a free quoteFrequently asked questions
What documents are needed to export garments from India?
The standard documents for garment export from India are: commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading (sea) or airway bill (air), certificate of origin, shipping bill (filed at Indian customs), and GST export documents. For UAE, a CEPA certificate of origin allows preferential duty rates. Some countries require a textile certificate or specific labelling — confirm with your buyer before production.
What is the HSN code for garments in India?
Common HSN codes for garments in India: Chapter 61 covers knitted or crocheted clothing (t-shirts: 6109, hoodies/sweatshirts: 6110, track suits: 6112). Chapter 62 covers woven garments (trousers: 6203/6204, kurtas/dresses: 6204, nightwear: 6207/6208). Your manufacturer's export invoice will include the correct HSN code. Verify with your freight forwarder for import classification in your country.
What are the shipping options for garments from India?
Air freight is best for urgent or smaller shipments — 3–7 days to most destinations, higher cost per kg. Sea freight is best for larger shipments (Full Container Load or LCL groupage) — 8–35 days depending on destination, significantly lower cost per unit. Most Indian garment manufacturers work with freight forwarders who handle both options. For UAE, air is 3–5 days; sea from JNPT/Mumbai is 8–12 days.
Does India charge export duty on garments?
India does not charge export duty on garments. In fact, Indian garment exporters can claim GST refunds (Input Tax Credit) on exported goods, making exports effectively tax-neutral. Indian manufacturers with export experience handle the GST refund process through the DGFT/ICEGATE system routinely.