🏭 Export Factory Stuffing refers to the loading of export goods into containers at the exporter’s factory, warehouse, or private premises, rather than at a port or container freight station (CFS). This is done under the supervision of customs or via self-sealing if the exporter qualifies
Self-Sealing is a facility granted to exporters under the GST regime, allowing them to seal export containers at their factory or warehouse using RFID-enabled electronic seals, without requiring a customs officer to be physically present.
This system was introduced to simplify the export process and reduce delays, as per CBEC Circular No. 41/2017-Customs dated 30 October 2017
🎯 Goals of Self-Sealing
Efficiency: Eliminates need for customs officer at stuffing sit
Ease of doing business: Faster container movement and reduced port congestion
Security: Use of tamper-proof RFID seals ensures cargo integrity
Transparency: Real-time tracking of sealed containers
🎯 Why It Matters
- Saves time and cost by avoiding delays at ports
- Improves logistics and control over cargo handling
- Reduces congestion at customs stations
- Boosts compliance and transparency in exports
✅ Who Can Avail It?
Exporters who meet the following criteria:
- Registered under GST
- Regularly file GSTR-1 and GSTR-3B
- Have a clean compliance record (no penal action under Customs, FEMA, FTDR Act)
- Have secure and suitable premises for container stuffing
Authorized Economic Operators (AEOs) and exporters who previously used supervised sealing are automatically eligible.
📦 How It Works
- Apply for permission to the jurisdictional Commissioner of Customs
- Customs may inspect the premises before granting approval
- Once approved, the exporter can:
- Stuff containers at approved premises
- Seal them using RFID e-seals from authorized vendors
- Intimate customs electronically before each shipment
📡 What Is an RFID e-Seal?
An RFID e-seal is a tamper-proof electronic seal with a unique ID. It stores container data and can be read by customs officers at the port using handheld or fixed readers.
Exporters must ensure:
- Seal data is uploaded to ICEGATE
- Seal integrity is maintained until customs verification
📝 Key Documents Required
- IEC Certificate
- GST Registration
- PAN Card
- GSTR-1 & GSTR-3B returns
- Premises ownership/rent proof
- Declaration of compliance
- Application letter to Customs
📋 Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for factory stuffing or self-sealing:
- Must be a registered exporter with a valid IEC
- Must be GST compliant
- Should have a clean compliance record (no penal action under Customs, FEMA, or FTDR Act)
- Premises must be secure and suitable for container loading
🛠️ Application Process
- Draft a formal request to the Jurisdictional Superintendent of Customs
- Attach all required documents
- Submit the application at least 15 days before the first planned export
- Customs may conduct a site inspection
- Receive a Letter of Permission (LoP) for factory stuffing
🔐 Self-Sealing Option
Under Notification No. 07/2017 dated 14-08-2017, eligible exporters can opt for self-sealing without customs supervision. This requires:
- Approval from customs
- Use of tamper-proof one-time seals
- Proper documentation and intimation to customs before each shipment
⏱ Validity & Scope
- Permission is generally valid across all customs stations
- Exporters with multiple locations must apply separately for each site
- The process typically takes 1–2 weeks
📎 Reference Materials
You can find detailed procedures and FAQs in these official resources: