2. How Does the Self-Sealing Permission Procedure Work?

Once exporters are granted Self-Sealing permission, they need to buy E-seals. Each E-seal contains a unique RFID chip with electronic information. The normal cost for one E-seal is Rs.300, and they are generally sold in boxes containing 20-30 E-seals. You can only buy these from registered vendors.

After stuffing the container, you need to attach the E-seal. During this process, you need to fill in all shipment details on the online web module/application of the E-seal vendor, such as IEC code, SB number and date, seal number, date and time of sealing, destination customs station for export, container number, truck number, etc. Once this information is entered online, it cannot be edited, so be careful when filling it out.

When your container reaches the port, a customs officer checks the E-seal with their device. If it displays a "Not Tampered" message, all further formalities are processed smoothly. This is the overall process.

3. Pros and Cons of Factory Stuffing / Self-Sealing - Should you opt for it?

Pros: 

• No Multiple Handling: Generally, if you stuff goods at CFS, loading/unloading happens 2-3 times, and different people handle it, increasing the risk of damage to goods.
• Cost Saving: If an ICD or main port is near your factory, you can save on CFS storage charges. The overall saving is a minimum of Rs. 2000 to 3000 per container.
• Optimization of Container Space: If your trained labor regularly stuffs the goods, they know how to do it efficiently without wasting space.

Cons:

• Long Distance from Factory to Port: If your factory is far from the port or ICD, the cost of transporting the empty container from the port or ICD to your factory will be very high, making factory stuffing unviable. Apart from this, there are no other major cons.

4. Eligibility Criteria & Application Procedure for Self Sealing Permission

All exporters who file GST returns are eligible to apply for Self-Sealing Permission. The initial validity of Self-Sealing Permission is 5 years for manufacturer exporters and 1 year for merchant exporters. After this period, they need to reapply to extend the validity.

Initially, the application for factory stuffing permission was made at the GST/Excise office. However, as per the latest rules, the application should be made at the jurisdictional Preventive Customs office of the factory or warehouse where you intend to carry out factory stuffing.

After submitting the application, a customs officer will visit the factory for inspection to check if there is sufficient space to carry out factory stuffing.

Based on the factory visit report and NOC from the jurisdictional GST office, the Preventive Customs officer will grant Self-Sealing Permission.

Once permission is granted by the Preventive Customs office, you need to register it at the respective port from where you will export.

5. Documents Required for Self-Sealing Permission Application

Some of the major documents required for the Self-Sealing Permission application include:

• A request letter.
• Annexure C and Annexure D where you need to list authorized persons who will handle the self-sealing procedure along with their Aadhaar cards, bio-data, specimen signature verified by the bank, etc.
• Common KYC documents like IEC, PAN, GST, MSME, etc.
• Copies of GSTR 1 and GSTR 3B of the last year.
• Site map with coloured photographs.
• Ownership agreement/lease deed of the factory premises or warehouse for which factory stuffing permission is required.
• Description of export goods, etc.

6. How Can We Assist You in Getting Factory Stuffing / Self Sealing Permission?

Our experts assist you in getting Factory Stuffing Permission, here is how –

• We first help you get the paperwork done for factory stuffing. So, we get customs clearance and other paperwork done on your behalf.
• We make sure you comply with all the regulations related to factory stuffing. If you are not aware, we also inform and train you in this matter.
• We ensure you use the RFID e-seal correctly to ensure the maximum safety of your cargo.

We have helped more than 250 companies get their Self-Sealing Permission and renew it.

7. Why KK Aequitas?

We aim to provide very reliable services at the most competitive cost to exporters under one roof.

Social Media Presence: We strive to grow our relationships with clients by updating them about the latest notifications, circulars, and amendments in foreign trade policies on all social networking sites.

24/7 Telephonic Service: We offer fast services to clients who can't wait until morning to fix a problem. We are just a phone call away. Clients can call or drop a mail, and we try to reach them as soon as possible.