AD CODE Registration

AD Code Registration

An AD Code (Authorized Dealer Code) is a 14-digit unique code issued by the exporter's bank (Authorized Dealer) and registered with the customs port/ICD through a Custom House Agent (CHA). It is mandatory for exporters to file Shipping Bills on the ICEGATE portal and to receive foreign exchange remittances for export shipments.

Why is AD Code Registration Important?

• Without AD Code registration at the customs port, the Shipping Bill cannot be filed on ICEGATE.
• It links the export shipment to the exporter's bank for foreign exchange receipt tracking.
• Required by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) for FEMA compliance on export proceeds.
• Enables the exporter to claim duty drawback and other export benefits.
• Each customs port/ICD where goods are shipped from requires a separate AD Code registration.

Who Needs AD Code Registration?

• All exporters shipping goods through sea ports (JNPT, Mundra, Chennai, etc.).
• All exporters using air cargo stations (Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore airports).
• All exporters using Inland Container Depots (ICDs) and Container Freight Stations (CFSs).

Documents Required

• Import Export Code (IEC) Certificate — mandatory prerequisite.
• AD Code Letter from the bank — issued by the authorized dealer bank on their letterhead.
• GST Registration Certificate of the exporter.
• PAN Card and address proof of the firm.
• Authorization letter to the CHA to register the AD Code at the customs port.

Registration Process

1. Approach your bank (Authorized Dealer) and request an AD Code letter for the specific customs port.
2. Bank issues the AD Code letter on their letterhead confirming the IEC and bank account details.
3. Engage a licensed Custom House Agent (CHA) at the customs port.
4. CHA submits the AD Code letter for registration at the customs port's system.
5. AD Code is registered at the port — typically takes 2–5 days.
6. Once registered, the Shipping Bill can be filed using the AD Code for all future export shipments from that port.

Timeline

3–7 working days from AD Code letter submission to port registration.

Why Choose Tax Precision?

• Expert CHA coordination at all major customs ports and ICDs across India.
• Bank coordination for AD Code letter issuance in the correct format.
• Multi-port AD Code registration for exporters using multiple shipping points.
• ICEGATE portal registration and Shipping Bill filing support post-AD Code registration.
• Duty drawback account setup and claim processing advisory.