Documentation is where food-import relationships are won or lost: customs delays cost more than price differences. This checklist covers the standard set for Indian food shipments.
Core commercial set: commercial invoice and packing list, prepared consistently (mismatches between the two are the most common clearance delay). Certificate of origin from an authorised chamber establishes Indian origin for duty purposes.
Regulatory set: phytosanitary certificate for fresh and plant-origin products; health certificate where the destination requires it; laboratory analysis matched to destination requirements where a buyer specifies it.
Transport & risk set: bill of lading or air waybill, and marine insurance certificate for CIF/CIP terms.
The professional habit that prevents problems: agree the complete document list in writing at order confirmation — supplier, buyer and clearing agent aligned before production, not at the port.
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