FERRIC TRADE | Scrap Harbor

Documentation for Containerized & Non-Containerized Scrap Shipments

Proper documentation is critical for smooth customs clearance, regulatory compliance, and risk-free transactions in both containerized (FCL/LCL) and non-containerized (breakbulk/bulk) shipments. Below is a structured guide to the essential documents required for both shipping methods as per international trade regulations and Indian DGS Order & Customs Act.

Containerized Shipments (FCL & LCL) Documentation

For Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL) shipments, the following documents are mandatory for import clearance:

Commercial & Trade Documents

Commercial Invoice – Includes scrap grade, weight, unit price, total value, and HS Code (e.g., 7204 for ferrous scrap).
Packing List – Specifies container-wise cargo details (net/gross weight, number of containers, scrap type, and dimensions if required).
Sales Contract – Signed agreement between buyer & seller, specifying trade terms (Incoterms – CIF, FOB, CFR, DDP, etc.).

Shipping & Logistics Documents

Bill of Lading (B/L) –
• Original B/L (for DP or LC shipments) or
• Telex Release (for quick clearance without physical document exchange)
Container Loading List – Details container numbers, seal numbers, and stuffing methods.
Certificate of Origin (COO) – Required for claiming FTA benefits or duty exemptions under trade agreements.

Regulatory & Compliance Documents

Pre-Shipment Inspection (PSI) Report – Mandatory for ferrous scrap imports into India, issued by third-party agencies (SGS, BV, Intertek, etc.).
Fumigation Certificate (if required) – Some ports require fumigation certificates to ensure the absence of contaminants in scrap cargo.
Shipping Line Certificate – Required in some cases for DGS & Port Authority clearance in India.
Form 10 & DGFT Import Authorization (if applicable) – Required for restricted scrap categories under Indian import regulations.

Non-Containerized (Breakbulk/Bulk) Shipments Documentation

For bulk shipments transported via breakbulk or bulk carrier vessels, additional freight handling and weight verification documents are required.

Standard Trade & Commercial Documents

Commercial Invoice & Packing List – Same as containerized shipments.
Sales Contract with Bulk Shipping Terms – Including bulk vessel loading, demurrage-free period, and discharge port conditions.
Bill of Lading (B/L) – Bulk Format – Issued based on weight draft survey at the loading port.

Additional Shipping & Freight Documentation

Weight Draft Survey Report – Conducted at the loading port to confirm actual shipped tonnage.
Load Port Inspection Certificate – Ensures bulk cargo meets quality & compliance standards before shipment.
Port Handling Certificate – Required for bulk cargo unloading at Indian ports (Mundra, Kandla, Chennai, etc.).
Stowage Plan – Used for breakbulk shipments to ensure proper cargo loading and securing.

Regulatory & Insurance Documents

Marine Insurance Certificate – Covers damage, theft, weight discrepancies, and unforeseen losses.
Port Discharge Certificate (For Non-Containerized Cargo) – Confirms successful unloading at the destination port.
Health & Safety Declaration (If Required) – Some ports require certification of non-hazardous scrap composition.