ICEGATE: Meaning, Benefits and Registration Process

ICEGATE, or the Indian Customs and Central Excise Electronic Commerce/Electronic Data Interchange (EC/EDI) Gateway, is a pivotal online portal revolutionizing India’s trade landscape. With over 3,00,000 users, ICEGATE streamlines e-filing services for cargo and trade carriers, acting as a digital bridge between businesses and the customs department. Designed to simplify processes, enhance efficiency, and support seamless trade operations, this platform empowers stakeholders to navigate customs formalities effortlessly, making it an essential tool for India’s growing global trade network.

What is ICEGATE and Its Significance?

ICEGATE is an essential infrastructure platform designed to meet the Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), e-commerce, and data communication needs of the Customs department. It supports exporters and importers and connects with partner systems that transmit messages through Customs EDI, speeding up Customs clearance.

The platform provides several electronic services, including:

• Online Registration for IPR: Facilitates the registration of Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) to ensure smooth import and export transactions.
• IE Code Status Verification:  Allows users to check the status of their Import Export Code (IEC) to Ensure Compliance and uninterrupted operations.
• Tracking Customs Document Status: Enables real-time tracking of Customs documents, helping businesses stay informed about their shipment status.
• E-payment of Customs Duties: Offers an online payment system for clearing customs duties, making the process quicker and more convenient.
• IGST Refunds: Helps businesses track and manage Integrated Goods and Services Tax (IGST) refunds for their import/export transactions.
• Checking DES/DEPB/EPCG licenses: Allows verification of Duty Entitlement Pass Book (DEPB), Duty Free Entitlement Scheme (DES), and Export Promotion Capital Goods (EPCG) licenses.
• PAN-based Data Search: Provides access to PAN-based information for easy tracking and verification of Customs data.
• Redirecting to Customs-related Websites: Directs users to other relevant Customs-related websites for comprehensive information and services.

Available 24/7, ICEGATE simplifies Customs processes for smoother trade operations.

Why Should One Register At ICEGATE?

To file essential documents like the Bill of Entry and shipping bills online, users must register with ICEGATE. A single ICEGATE registration allows access to all or any EDI customs ports for transactions.

Registration is typically required for the following:

• Export General Manifest (EGM): An Export General Manifest (EGM) is a legal document that provides details of all the cargo loaded onto a carrier for export, serving as an official record for customs clearance.
• Import General Manifest (IGM):  A document submitted by the carrier (ship or aircraft) before arriving at an Indian port, listing all cargo on board for customs clearance.
• Consol Manifest: A consolidated document used in cargo shipping that provides details of multiple consignments grouped under a single transport document for easier customs processing.
• Export Activities: Filing shipping bills and other necessary documents to ensure smooth customs clearance and compliance for exporting goods from India.
• Import Activities: Filing the Bill of Entry and other required documents to enable customs clearance of imported goods into India.

Documents Required for ICEGATE Registration

To complete your ICEGATE registration, as a business owner, you will need to submit the following documents:

1. Digital Signature Certificate (DSC)
2. Import Export Code (IEC)
3. Company Information:
   • Company Name
   • Registered Office Address
   • Contact Information (email & phone number)
   • Type of Business (e.g., partnership, private limited, etc.)
4. Authorized Signatory Details:
   • Name of Authorized Signatory
   • Designation within the Company
   • Identity Proof (Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, etc.)
5. Bank Account Information:
   • Name of Bank
   • Bank Branch Address
   • Account Number
   • IFSC Code
6. Board Resolution/Authorization Letter
7. GST Registration Certificate
8. Ad Code or Authorised Dealer Code: It is a 14-digit number issued by a bank, required for exporters and importers to process foreign trade transactions and receive export benefits like duty drawbacks or IGST refunds.

Note: Ensure that all documents are accurate and complete to help streamline your ICEGATE registration process.

How to Register for ICEGATE?

The ICEGATE registration process is straightforward and can be completed in a few simple steps:

1. Visit the ICEGATE portal.
2. On the homepage, click the ‘Login/Signup’ link to sign up on the Central Board of Excise & Customs e-commerce portal. Alternatively you can go to the “services” link from the homepage and click on “Registration on ICEGATE” to proceed to signup.
3. Enter and verify your IEC, GSTIN, and the temporary password sent by the portal.
4. Fill in the required details and complete the registration form.
5. Set up your unique ICEGATE ID and password.
6. OTPs will be sent to your registered email and mobile number.
7. Enter the OTPs to complete the registration.
8. Review your details and click ‘Finish’ to complete the process.

If you need to update your email or other details, click “Click Here” and provide an alternative email and mobile number. An OTP will be sent to the new email.

ICEGATE Bill of Entry

ICEGATE is a key part of India’s customs system, operated by the Indian Customs Electronic Gateway.

The Bill of Entry is an e-declaration form used for imported goods, providing details like product type, value, and applicable taxes. Importers submit this document to ICEGATE to help customs process and clear shipments quickly. The platform works seamlessly with other government systems like GST to speed up customs clearance.

The digital format of the ICEGATE Bill of Entry reduces paperwork, minimizes errors, and speeds up approval for small businesses involved in international trade. Importers can also obtain an ICEGATE certificate to confirm their registration and transactions.

How to view the Bill of Entry Status on ICEGATE from the GST Portal?

Follow these simple, step-by-step guide to check the ICEGATE Bill of Entry status:

1. Log into the GST Portal: Use your updated login credentials to access the GST portal.
2. Go to the Services Tab: Click on the “Services” tab and select “User Services” from the dropdown menu to explore options related to GST and customs.
3. Select User Services: From the “User Services” menu, choose “ICEGATE Bill of Entry Status.” This will take you to the correct page.
4. Enter Shipment Details: Provide the required shipment details and the Bill of Entry number to check its status.
5. Check the Status: The system will display the current status of the Bill of Entry, showing where it is in the processing stage.
6. Take Necessary Actions: Depending on the status, you may need to take further steps, such as contacting customs or managing documents.

Conclusion

In conclusion, ICEGATE plays a crucial role in streamlining India’s customs and import/export processes, providing businesses with a seamless platform for filing essential documents like the Bill of Entry. By reducing paperwork and speeding up customs clearance, ICEGATE helps businesses navigate complex trade regulations more efficiently.

For businesses seeking to grow and scale, Kinara Capital offers valuable support. With collateral-free business loans tailored to MSMEs, Kinara Capital empowers entrepreneurs to invest in resources and technology that enhance their operations and drive growth, making the most of platforms like ICEGATE for smoother business transactions.

FAQs

1. Is it mandatory to file the documents through mail id registered with ICEGATE?

Yes, it is mandatory to file documents through the email ID registered with ICEGATE. Using the registered email ensures proper verification and secure communication between the customs department and the business for processing.

2. Why was ICEGATE launched?

ICEGATE was launched to streamline and digitize India’s customs processes, enabling faster and more efficient import and export operations. It facilitates electronic filing of documents, reducing paperwork, errors, and processing time for businesses.

3. What is the difference between Bill of entry and Bill of lading?

A Bill of Entry is a customs document used for importing goods, detailing product information and taxes, while a Bill of Lading serves as a receipt and contract between the shipper and carrier for transporting goods.

4. What is basic custom duty?

Basic Customs Duty is a tax levied on imported goods by the government of India. It is calculated as a percentage of the goods’ value and is the primary tax for customs clearance.

5. What is Bill’s entry’s purpose?

The purpose of a Bill of Entry is to declare imported goods to customs authorities, providing essential details such as product description, value, and taxes. It facilitates customs clearance and ensures compliance with regulations.