Import Release Order – Smooth Clearance for Your Imports
Table of Contents
Overview of Import Release Order
An Import Release Order (IRO), often called the Let Export Order (LEO) in export context, is a crucial official document issued by the Customs Department authorizing the release of imported goods into the importer’s possession after successful customs clearance.
The concept of Import Release Order has evolved from the Customs Act, 1962 and is regulated under the provisions of the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) and the Handbook of Procedures (HBP) enforced by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) along with the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC).
IRO issuance signifies the completion of import clearance formalities, including duty payment or bond submission, inspection and verification, document scrutiny, and compliance with import regulations including quarantine clearances under the Ministry of Agriculture if plant or animal products are involved.
The IRO is integral to facilitating legal, timely, and smooth import of goods, supporting India’s trade logistics, economic policies, and agricultural biosecurity
Who Needs Import Release Order?
- Importers and businesses receiving goods ordered from international suppliers.
- Customs House Agents (CHAs) and logistics firms managing import clearance processes.
- Exporters returning goods under duty drawbacks or re-importation scenarios.
- Companies importing raw materials or finished goods spanning various sectors including industrial, agricultural, pharma, retail, and food.
- Importers of agricultural goods who must comply with additional quarantine release orders under agricultural norms.
- Entities participating in import-export schemes as per DGFT and Ministry of Agriculture guidelines.
Anyone importing goods subject to Indian customs control requires an Import Release Order to legally take possession and distribute imported consignments.
Key Benefits of Import Release Order
- Legal Ownership Transfer: Formal authorization for importers to take possession and utilize imported goods.
- Clears Customs Holds: Ensures consignment clearance preventing seizures or unnecessary detentions.
- Synchronizes Duties and Taxes: Confirms payment or exemption of customs duties, GST, and other mandatory taxes before release.
- Facilitates Business Operations: Enables timely warehousing, distribution, sale, or use of imported goods.
- Supports Compliance: Verifies adherence with import restrictions, licensing, quarantine, or certification requirements.
- Reduces Delays: Digitalized clearance and auto-generated IRO accelerate port operations.
- Improves Supply Chain Management: Helps importers manage inventory accurately by confirming legal release.
- Enhances Trade Transparency: Custom records and systems provide clear audit trails for imports.
With IRO, importers can optimize customs clearance efficiency and regulatory adherence enabling smooth business continuity.
Procedure to Obtain Import Release Order
- File Bill of Entry: Importer or Customs House Agent files Bill of Entry electronically through ICEGATE with necessary import documentation.
- Payment of Duties: Calculate and pay applicable customs duty, GST, cess, and other charges online or through designated banks.
- Document Verification: Customs officers verify invoice, packing list, import license, shipping documents, and compliance certificates.
- Physical Inspection: If required, customs conducts sample checks or container inspections.
- Quarantine Clearance: For agricultural/animal products, obtain quarantine release orders from the Agriculture Ministry or relevant authorities.
- Approval and Release Order: Upon satisfaction with verification, customs generates and issues Import Release Order authorizing release of goods.
- Goods Takeover: Importer receives goods from customs bonded area or warehouse for further distribution.
- Post Clearance Compliance: Maintain records and fulfill any post-clearance audit or regulatory requirements.
Efficient filing and accurate document submission are essential for prompt issuance.
Documents Required for Import Release Order
Import Export Code (IEC) issued by DGFT.
Commercial invoice specifying product description, quantity, and value.
Bill of Lading or Air Waybill.
Importer Exporter Code (IEC) certificate.
Customs duty payment challan.
Insurance certificate for shipment.
Import license if applicable under import policy.
Phytosanitary certificate or Import Release Order for agricultural products.
GST registration and related tax invoices.
Quarantine clearance documents if applicable.
Any other approvals needed based on product category.
Update and Compliance for Import Release Order
- Maintain Accurate Records: Retain copies of IRO, Bill of Entry, payment receipts, and clearance certificates for audit.
- Regular Policy Updates: Stay informed of FTP, customs duty, and agricultural quarantine policy changes.
- Timely Import Duty Payments: Ensure duties and taxes are paid fully to avoid delays or penalties.
- Adhere to Quarantine Norms: For plant/animal products, timely compliance with quarantine inspections is mandatory.
- Renew Import Licenses: Keep import licenses and IEC codes updated to maintain compliance.
- Respond to Audits: Cooperate with customs or regulatory audits regarding import shipments and release orders.
- Digital Compliance: Use authorized customs systems like ICEGATE for filing and tracking release orders.
Ongoing compliance is crucial for legal import operations and eligibility for trade benefits.
Why Choose Us for Import Release Order Assistance?
- Expertise in Customs and Trade: Skilled in managing import clearance processes and regulatory compliance.
- Full Documentation Support: Guidance and verification to ensure error-free submission.
- Efficient Filing & Follow-up: End-to-end management of Bill of Entry filing and status tracking.
- Update & Renewal Services: Help maintain active import licenses and certificates.
- Transparent Pricing: Clear, affordable, and competitive service charges.
- Reliable & Timely Service: Focused on minimizing delays and easing client workload.
- Client-Centric Approach: Personalized solutions tailored to your import product and company size.
Partner with us for hassle-free import clearance and prompt import release order issuance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is an Import Release Order (IRO)?
An official customs authorization for the importer to take possession of goods after clearance.
Who issues the Import Release Order?
The Customs Department after verifying all import formalities and payments.
What documents are required for IRO issuance?
Bill of Entry, invoice, IEC certificate, duty payment proof, shipping documents, and quarantine certificates if applicable.
What happens if Import Release Order is delayed?
Delays can cause storage charges, demurrage, or penalties, and impact supply chain schedules.
Can I get IRO without paying customs duty?
No, payment or valid bond/LUT is mandatory before goods clearance and IRO issuance.
Is IRO required for all imports?
Yes, for all imports requiring Customs clearance and entry in India.
How can I track an Import Release Order?
Through the Customs ICEGATE portal using Bill of Entry or shipment details.