Shipping Bill & Tracking: How to Check Your Shipping Bill Status In India
Tracking & Real-Time Visibility
When you're in the import-export business, the shipping bill is one of the most important documents you'll come across. It's essential for customs clearance, tracking shipments, and maintaining compliance. Whether you're a new exporter or a seasoned trader, understanding how to check your shipping bill status, perform a shipping bill enquiry, and use shipping bill tracking tools is crucial for smooth logistics operations.
In this blog, we'll cover everything you need to know, from what a shipping bill is to how to check its status online efficiently. We'll also include a simple guide and a helpful table to make finding your shipping bill details easier.
Also Read: https://ilsportal.io/blogs/best-courier-services-in-india-for-bulk-shipping
What Is a Shipping Bill?
A shipping bill is a critical legal document used in the export process. It's issued by customs when goods are cleared for export and acts as an official permit for those goods to leave the country. The shipping bill contains vital information like the exporter's details, HS code, goods description, value, port of loading, and destination.
The customs authorities use the shipping bill to ensure all duties, taxes, and regulations are followed. This document is also used for exporters to claim benefits under schemes like Duty Drawback, MEIS, or RoDTEP.
Why Shipping Bill Status Matters
Tracking your shipping bill status allows you to:
- Ensure that your goods have cleared customs
- Confirm that the export has been recorded properly
- Track any delays or errors in the shipping process
- Plan your next steps, such as invoicing or follow-up shipping
Without regularly checking the status, exporters risk encountering problems like delayed shipments, missed export incentives, or buyer disputes.
How to Check Shipping Bill Status Online
Thanks to digital advancements, exporters can now check the shipping bill tracking status online via the Indian Customs Electronic Gateway (ICEGATE). It is a government portal that enables exporters to make online shipping bill enquiries and track their document processing in real-time.
Step-by-Step Guide: Shipping Bill Enquiry through ICEGATE
| Step | Action | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Visit ICEGATE | Go to https://www.icegate.gov.in |
| 2 | Click on 'SB Status' | Under the 'Services' tab, choose 'SB Status' |
| 3 | Enter Details | Input your Shipping Bill Number, Date, and Port Code |
| 4 | Submit | Click the submit button to get the current status |
| 5 | Review Results | Check for updates like “Let Export Order Given”, “Export General Manifest Filed”, etc. |
This simple shipping bill enquiry process gives exporters peace of mind by confirming the current position of their export documentation.
Key Status Types in Shipping Bill Tracking
Here are some common status messages you might come across while using the shipping bill tracking feature:
- "Shipping Bill Submitted" – Your export bill has been filed.
- "Under Processing" – Customs is verifying the bill.
- "Let Export Order (LEO) Given" – Customs has approved the export.
- "EGM Filed" – The Export General Manifest was submitted, and the goods left the country.
- "Drawback Sanctioned" – Export benefits have been approved.
Each status update gives you important insight into where your export shipment stands in the pipeline.
Documents Required to Track or Check Shipping Bill Status
While using ICEGATE for shipping bill tracking, ensure you have the following:
- Shipping Bill Number (14-digit format)
- Shipping Bill Date
- Port Code (e.g., INNSA1 for Nhava Sheva)
- Registered ICEGATE login (optional for full access)
Having these details ready makes your shipping bill enquiry faster and more accurate.
Common Issues & Tips for Smooth Tracking
Sometimes, tracking may not show the latest updates due to:
- Delay in EGM filing by the carrier
- Technical errors on the ICEGATE portal
- Wrong port code or date entered
Pro Tips:
- Always double-check the spelling and numbers when entering details
- Contact your CHA (Customs House Agent) if there's a prolonged delay
- For frequent users, registering on ICEGATE provides enhanced tracking options and email alerts
Benefits of Regular Shipping Bill Tracking
Regular shipping bill status checks ensure better export control and help avoid costly errors. Here are some advantages:
- Early identification of customs clearance issues
- Helps with GST reconciliation and export documentation
- Useful during audits and incentive claims
- Builds buyer trust with real-time updates
Whether you're a small exporter or a large shipping and logistics company, efficient shipping bill tracking is key to staying compliant and profitable.
Track Shipments with Integrated Logistics Partners
For efficient export operations, having seamless integrations with reliable logistics partners is just as important as tracking your shipping bill status. With platforms like ILS Portal, exporters can streamline shipping processes and monitor real-time updates from top courier partners.
If you're looking to enhance your shipping bill tracking and overall logistics workflow, here are two trusted carrier integrations you can explore:
Ekart Logistics Integration
Ekart Logistics is one of India's most reliable logistics providers, offering robust last-mile delivery solutions. Integrate Ekart with your shipping system for real-time tracking, faster dispatches, and improved visibility of order fulfilment.
DTDC Courier Integration
DTDC Customer Portal is a leading express parcel service provider with a broad domestic and international reach. With DTDC integration, you can automate your shipping label generation, access up-to-date tracking information, and keep your customers informed.
Final Thoughts
Understanding how to track your shipping bill status and using shipping bill tracking tools like ICEGATE can save you time, money, and a lot of headaches. Exporters who actively perform shipping bill enquiries are better prepared to handle delays, ensure compliance, and maintain transparency in their supply chain.
By regularly checking your shipping bill, you not only improve operational efficiency but also build credibility with international clients and partners.
FAQs About Shipping Bill Status and Tracking
Q1. Can I track shipping bill status without logging in?
ICEGATE allows basic shipping bill enquiry without login, but full tracking features require registration.
Q2. What if I lost my shipping bill number?
You can retrieve it from your CHA or your export invoice documents.
Q3. How often is the ICEGATE portal updated?
It is typically updated every 24 hours based on the customs EDI system.
Q4. Is a shipping bill and a bill of lading the same?
No, a shipping bill is a customs document, while the carrier issues a bill of lading as a receipt of goods.
