In line with the Government of India's Ease of Doing Business initiatives, the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) launched e-SANCHIT (e-Storage and Computerized Handling of Indirect Tax Data). Under e-SANCHIT, importers, exporters, and customs brokers are required to upload supporting documents digitally using a Class 3 Digital Signature Certificate, completely eliminating physical paper submissions at customs ports.

How e-SANCHIT Works with Digital Signatures

Before filing an electronic Bill of Entry (for imports) or Shipping Bill (for exports) on ICEGATE:

  • The customs broker or importer converts supporting documents (Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Bill of Lading, Certificate of Origin) into PDF format.
  • Each PDF must be digitally signed using a valid Class 3 DSC registered with ICEGATE.
  • Once uploaded on e-SANCHIT, the portal generates an Image Reference Number (IRN) for each document.
  • These IRNs are tagged in the electronic Bill of Entry, allowing customs assessing officers to verify the documents instantly on their terminals.

Who Must Hold the DSC for e-SANCHIT?

Digital signing on e-SANCHIT can be performed by:

  • Customs Brokers (CB / CHA): Licensed customs brokers handling clearance on behalf of multiple trade clients.
  • Direct Importers / Exporters (IEC Holders): Internal logistics and export-import compliance teams.
  • Freight Forwarders & Authorized Economic Operators (AEO): Validated trade partners under the World Customs Organization SAFE framework.

Get Trade Class 3 DSC for e-SANCHIT

Approved Class 3 Signing DSC configured for ICEGATE and e-SANCHIT document uploads.

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PDF Preparation Guidelines for e-SANCHIT

CBIC enforces strict document formatting requirements:

  • PDF files must not exceed 1 MB per document.
  • Resolution must be set to 200 DPI (Black & White preferred for text clarity).
  • Digital signatures must be embedded using Adobe Acrobat or an offline batch signing tool compatible with PKCS#7 format.

Ensure your trade organization's Class 3 DSC is issued on a high-speed cryptographic USB token to avoid clearance bottlenecks at ports.