It is essential to mention port code numbers in GST returns by companies exporting goods from India. These numbers simplify a lot of processes related to reporting, monitoring, verifying and claiming exporters’ GST incentives. This article explains the importance of port codes in filingGST returns for exports and provides the port code list in India.
What is a port code?
A port code is a unique standardised alphanumeric identifier specific to a custom port engaged in international trades. Worldwide, every port has its unique identifying port code.
For example, port codes for,
Kandla SEZ port is INKDL6.
Vizag port is INVTZ1.
Haldi port is INHAL1.
As per the convention of international trade and logistics, port codes can be assigned to every type of custom port including:
Seaports - Examples are Chennai, Mumbai, Kandla, etc.
Land ports - Examples are Bagdogra, Attari, Agartala, etc.
Airports handling cargo - Examples: Kolkata Air cargo, Chennai Air cargo, Delhi Air cargo
Special Economic Zones - Examples: Jamnagar SEZ (Gujarat), Dahej SEZ (Gujarat), Salt Lake SEZ (West Bengal) etc.
Importance of port codes in filing GST returns for exports
Mentioning port codes while filing GST returns is essential as per the format and it serves many purposes. The importance of port code in GST is given below:
Legal obligation for claiming input tax credits - In a centralised indirect tax regime, it is mandatory for exporters willing to claim the input tax credit for GST paid on purchases to furnish port code in their GST return.
Seamless custom clearance procedure - Mentioning the right port codes simplify customs clearance process and cross-verification of the trade by the GST officials in case of any dispute.
Necessary to claim export-promotion incentives - Along with GST ITC, port codes in the GST returns also help to claim incentives related to export promotion.
Simplify tracking of an international trade - Information on port codes allows tracking an international trade from its dispatch till its delivery. This improves the supply chain visibility and analysis.
List of port codes in India
Below is the list of port codes in India-
PORT NAME
PORT CODE
MODE
INDIAN STATES
AACHIVS SEZ/NOIDA
INDEA6
ICD
UTTAR PRADESH
AAL-SEZ/Visakhapatnam
INNRP6
ICD
Andhra Pradesh
AA-SEZ AHMEDABAD
INAPI6
ICD
Gujarat
Achra
INACH1
SEA
Maharashtra
Adalaj
INADA6
ICD
Gujarat
AEPL SEZ/GURGAON
INGGE6
ICD
HARYANA
Agartala
INAGT8
ROAD
Tripura
Download your copy of the complete ready-to-refer India's port code list to stay compliant-
I preach the words, “Learning never exhausts the mind.” An aspiring CA and a passionate content writer having 4+ years of hands-on experience in deciphering jargon in Indian GST, Income Tax, off late also into the much larger Indian finance ecosystem, I love curating content in various forms to the interest of tax professionals, and enterprises, both big and small. While not writing, you can catch me singing Shāstriya Sangeetha and tuning my violin ;). Read more
Quick Summary
Port codes are important for exporters in GST returns, legal obligation for port codes, simplifies custom clearance, necessary for incentives, and aids in tracking trade.
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