The E-Way Bill system streamlines goods transport under GST, but understanding its distance limits and validity is key for compliance. The distance must be entered while generating the E-way bill, as it defines how far a consignment can travel under one e-way bill. Currently, a maximum distance of 3,000 km can be entered in the distance field while generating a waybill online.
Knowing when it's needed, its validity, and its exemptions help avoid penalties.
The E-Way Bill distance can be an approximation, which can be ascertained by using the MAP feature to compute the distance between the place of dispatch and the place of delivery.
Along the distance, the supplier must ensure that the goods reach the recipient's place within the e-way bill's validity period. Its validity is typically 1 day for every 200 km of travel.
The consignor must know the distance between the place of origin and the place of delivery of the consignment because the longer the distance, the higher the validity of the eway bill.
The rule helps streamline logistics and ensure compliance with GST regulations during the movement of goods.
No E-Way Bill is required for distances under 20 km. But suppose the value of the goods exceeds ₹50,000 and the movement is even 1 km within the state. In that case, it is mandatory to generate an E-Way Bill.
Distance | Requirement |
Under 20 km | No E-Way Bill required (e.g., local transport) |
20 km or more | E-Way Bill required |
To check the distance limit for an e-way bill, follow these steps on the E-way Bill Portal:
Log in to www.ewaybillgst.gov.in.
Click "Search" from the top menu and select “Pin to Pin Distance.”
Enter the 'Dispatch From Pincode' and the 'Ship to Pincode'. Then, enter the Captcha as shown and hit 'Go'. The system will automatically calculate the approximate distance.
Verify the auto-filled distance and proceed to generate the e-way bill.
You may need to follow specific intra-state E-Way Bill distance limits when moving goods within a state. Some states have unique rules for shorter distances to simplify compliance for local transport:
Each state may apply slight variations in these limits, so it is essential to know the state-specific E-Way Bill rules for your operations.
Note: If the supply is intrastate and for further transportation and the transportation office is shorter than 50km, then Part A must be filled.
An e-way bill is mandatory for inter-state consignments exceeding ₹50,000.
Specific scenarios don't require an E-Way Bill, even if the general rule would apply. Common exemptions include:
Understanding E-Way Bill validity and distance limits helps ensure GST compliance and smooth logistics. By adhering to specific regulations and exemptions, businesses can avoid penalties, while extensions for delays provide flexibility.