For Indian exporters

What your US buyer needs from you

Most delays on India–USA shipments start with missing information from the exporter. Your US buyer is responsible for US Customs, but they depend on you for several pieces, some of them before the container is even loaded.

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Updated 6 October 2026

ISF data, before loading

US importers must file an Importer Security Filing (ISF, also called "10+2") at least 24 hours before the container is loaded on the vessel in India. Late or wrong filings can bring penalties and holds, so your buyer will ask for these details early:

  • Seller and buyer names and addresses
  • Manufacturer or supplier name and address
  • Ship-to party
  • Country of origin
  • Commodity classification (HTS number, first six digits)
  • Container stuffing location
  • Consolidator, for LCL shipments

Product rules

  • Food, beverages and spices: the manufacturing facility must be registered with the US FDA, and the importer files prior notice before the shipment arrives.
  • Country-of-origin marking: goods and their packaging generally need to show the country of origin, for example "Made in India".
  • Wood packaging: pallets and crates must be heat-treated or fumigated to the ISPM 15 standard and carry the mark.
  • Other regulated goods, such as cosmetics, electrical items and textiles, have their own labelling or certification rules. Check with your buyer before production.

Documents to send

  • Commercial invoice with a clear description, value and currency
  • Packing list with weights and package counts
  • Bill of lading
  • Any certificates the product needs

How Atmavaan helps

When Atmavaan handles the shipment, we collect the ISF details from you at booking and can file the ISF for your buyer, so it is done before loading. Our US team works with your buyer's customs clearance on arrival.

Questions

FAQs

Who files the ISF, the exporter or the importer?

The US importer, or their agent, files the ISF. The exporter supplies most of the details: seller, manufacturer, origin, HTS number and container stuffing location.

When does the ISF have to be filed?

At least 24 hours before the container is loaded on the vessel at the port of origin in India.

Do spice exporters need FDA registration?

Yes. Facilities that manufacture, process, pack or hold food for the US market, including spices, must register with the FDA, and the importer files prior notice for each shipment.

What is ISPM 15?

An international standard for wood packaging. Pallets and crates must be heat-treated or fumigated and stamped with the ISPM 15 mark, or US Customs can refuse the shipment.

Shipping between India and the USA?

Atmavaan has teams in Chennai and in the USA. Send the details and a named specialist replies, not an auto-responder.

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