Question 1

What documents does an Indian supplier need to provide for export?

Accepted Answer

Your Indian supplier is responsible for providing the commercial invoice (with HSN codes, unit prices, and total value), a detailed packing list, the bill of lading or air waybill issued by the carrier, and a certificate of origin issued by the local chamber of commerce or export promotion council. Depending on the product, they may also need to supply test reports, phytosanitary certificates, fumigation certificates for wooden packaging, or BIS certificates. Export-ready suppliers handle all of this routinely. Sauda specifically sources from factories experienced in export, so the paperwork on the supplier side is handled professionally.

Question 2

What is a certificate of origin and why does it matter?

Accepted Answer

A certificate of origin (COO) is an official document that certifies the country where the goods were manufactured. It is issued by an Indian chamber of commerce, an export promotion council, or a government-designated body. The COO matters because it allows you to claim preferential duty rates under free trade agreements (FTAs) your country may have with India. Without it, customs in your country will apply the standard (often higher) tariff. Always confirm with your supplier before shipment that they can provide the correct type of COO for your specific FTA.

Question 3

Who issues the bill of lading or air waybill?

Accepted Answer

The bill of lading (for sea freight) is issued by the shipping line or their agent once the goods are loaded onto the vessel. The air waybill (for air freight) is issued by the airline or freight forwarder. These documents serve as proof of shipment, a receipt for the goods, and in the case of a negotiable bill of lading, a document of title. Your supplier or their freight forwarder arranges this as part of the shipping process. You will need the original or a telex release to collect your goods at the destination port.

Question 4

Do I need any product-specific certificates when importing from India?

Accepted Answer

Yes, depending on what you are importing. Textiles and garments may require Azo dye test reports or OEKO-TEX certificates. Food products typically need FSSAI registration details and lab test reports. Wooden packaging or pallets require an ISPM-15 fumigation certificate. Electronics may need BIS certification. Chemicals often require a material safety data sheet (MSDS). Your customs broker at the destination can confirm exactly which certificates your country requires. When you source through Sauda, the team ensures the supplier is aware of these requirements upfront.

Question 5

Is Sauda free for buyers, and how does it make money?

Accepted Answer

Sauda is completely free for buyers. There are no fees, commissions, or hidden charges on the buyer side. Sauda earns from the supplier side of the transaction. You simply send your sourcing requirement on WhatsApp at https://wa.me/9987549010, and Sauda finds factories, verifies them, contacts them, negotiates pricing, and returns the cheapest verified live quotes within 24 hours.

Question 6

How does Sauda verify Indian suppliers?

Accepted Answer

Sauda checks each supplier's GST filings and returns before presenting a quote. GST (Goods and Services Tax) is India's primary business tax, and reviewing a factory's filing history confirms that the business is active, legitimate, and transacting regularly. This verification filters out shell companies, dormant registrations, and traders posing as manufacturers. Combined with direct phone calls to the factory, this process gives you confidence that you are dealing with a real, operational supplier before any money changes hands.

Import Documentation Checklist: Every Document You Need When Importing Goods from India

How Sauda gets you the cheapest quote

Frequently asked

Related sourcing guides