Introduction
Once your food product has shipped, the paperwork journey begins. For importers, especially of Indian food products like A2 Ghee, wood-pressed oils, handmade pickles, or organic staples, having the correct post-shipment documents is essential to clear customs, claim insurance, and ensure traceability.
At Manjulam Impex, we ensure all global buyers receive complete and compliant documentation. Here’s a quick checklist of what food buyers should expect after shipment.
Bill of Lading (B/L)
What It Is:
A legal shipping document issued by the carrier.
Why It Matters:
• Acts as proof of shipment
• Required for customs clearance
• Needed for release of goods at destination port
Commercial Invoice & Packing List
What It Includes:
• Product name, HS code, quantity
• Price, terms (FOB/CIF), destination
• Weight, dimensions, and carton count
Why It’s Crucial:
• Customs authorities verify details using these
• Needed for import duties and clearances
• Essential for inventory management
Certificate of Origin (COO)
Issued By:
Authorized chamber of commerce or trade body
Purpose:
• Verifies the country of origin
• Helps claim FTA benefits (lower duties)
• Required for halal or regional preference buyers
Phytosanitary or Health Certificate
Required For:
• Edible oils, grains, pickles, dairy, etc.
Issued By:
Government-authorized inspection agency (APEDA, EIC, etc.)
Why It’s Important:
• Proves the product is safe, clean, and export-ready
• Required for entry into many countries (EU, US, GCC)
FSSAI Certificate & Test Reports
Especially Needed When:
• Buyer is from a country with strict food standards
• Product has health/nutritional claims
What’s Included:
• Ingredient breakdown
• Microbiological/chemical test results
• Free-from claims (e.g., no preservatives)
Insurance Certificate
Why It Matters:
• Proves goods are covered in transit
• Needed for claims in case of damage or loss
• Ensures buyer’s investment is protected
Conclusion
Getting the post-shipment documentation right is the last but one of the most critical steps in the food export journey. At Manjulam Impex, we support our international buyers with a complete documentation package that aligns with their country’s regulations and product type.
Whether you’re importing Ayurvedic ghee, wood-pressed oil, or handcrafted Indian foods, we make the paperwork simple, compliant, and export-ready.