The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has unveiled a new Warehouse Module on the Indian Customs Electronic Gateway (ICEGATE), revolutionising warehouse-related processes through a digital framework. This initiative aims to reduce paperwork, enhance transparency, and boost efficiency in customs operations.
The Warehouse Module facilitates three primary functions:
1. Online Application for Warehouse Licensing– Applicants can now digitally apply for Customs Bonded Warehouse licenses, eliminating the need for physical paperwork. Fully compliant with the Warehouse Licensing Regulations of 2016, the module allows authorised signatories to log in, submit applications, and upload necessary documents. Upon submission, applications are routed to the relevant Customs officer, who can raise queries directly through the portal. Once accepted, the license is issued online, expediting the process and minimising manual intervention.
2. Online Transfer of Warehoused Goods– The new module simplifies the transfer of goods between warehouses, accommodating changes in ownership or warehouse locations. The system captures critical details such as seller and buyer information, quantities, and security bonds while tracking goods’ real-time movements. Although some physical forms remain necessary, the system plans to fully integrate this process into its digital workflow in the future.
3. Uploading Monthly Returns– Licensees are required to submit monthly returns in two formats: Form A, detailing goods received, stored, and removed, and Form B, listing goods nearing the end of their warehousing period. The module allows these returns to be uploaded in PDF format, with future updates expected to enable web form submissions, further enhancing usability.
To assist users, the Directorate General of Systems (DG Systems) has released detailed user manuals accessible on ICEGATE, complete with step-by-step guidance and interface screenshots. For additional support, users can contact the ICEGATE helpdesk, ensuring seamless integration of this innovative module into customs operations.
