Freight Forwarding & Customs Clearance Experts
Balaji Logistics & Clearing (BLC) specialises in hassle-free customs clearance for shipments moving by sea, land and air. Backed by a team of seasoned professionals with a deep understanding of global customs laws and procedures, we ensure consignments are processed smoothly and on time — minimizing delays and maximizing efficiency across every shipment size and complexity.
Our coverage spans key trade hubs, with proactive coordination with port and customs authorities to keep your supply chain on track.
"We believe logistics is not just about moving goods—it's about delivering trust, commitment and long-term business relationships."
Our specialists handle tariff classification, duty and tax computation, and complete documentation, so every shipment stays fully compliant.
Customs clearance is the process of declaring goods to customs, paying the duties that apply and receiving permission to import or export them. Here is how it works in India, which documents are involved and where a customs broker fits in.
For imports, the importer or its authorised customs broker files a Bill of Entry electronically on the ICEGATE portal. Customs then assesses the declaration, checking the goods' classification and value to determine the duty payable. Depending on risk assessment, the consignment may be cleared on the basis of documents or selected for physical examination. Once the duty is paid and customs is satisfied, the goods are released for delivery.
A typical import file includes the commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or airway bill and the Importer Exporter Code (IEC), along with any licences or certificates the goods require. Sea cargo bound for the United States also needs an Importer Security Filing (ISF) lodged before the cargo is loaded, so confirm early who is responsible for it.
For exports, a Shipping Bill is filed on ICEGATE for the consignment. Customs may inspect the cargo and, once satisfied, permits the goods to be loaded for export (the “Let Export Order”). Exporters typically need the commercial invoice, packing list, the Shipping Bill and a valid IEC, plus any documents required for incentives or for the destination country. Getting these right before the cargo reaches the port avoids last-minute holds.
Customs duty and taxes are set by law and depend on how the goods are classified and valued — they are not a broker's fee. Separately, there are service charges for the customs broker and, depending on the shipment, port, terminal or container freight station handling charges, and detention or demurrage if cargo is held too long. BLC provides transparent duty calculations and itemised pricing so you can see exactly what you are paying for.
In India, clearing goods on behalf of an importer or exporter is done by a licensed customs broker (formerly called a customs house agent, or CHA). A broker's value lies in tariff classification, accurate documentation and knowing how each port, airport and inland container depot actually works. BLC clears sea, air and land consignments, with coverage across Delhi/NCR — including IGI Airport and the inland container depots — as well as Chennai, Haryana, Gujarat, Punjab and Rajasthan. Get in touch to discuss your next shipment.