AD Code Registration Export Guide

When This Applies

An AD (Authorised Dealer) Code is required for every exporter and importer in India. It links your bank account to customs (ICEGATE) for duty payments on imports and foreign exchange tracking on exports.

Documents Needed

• Bank account proof (cancelled cheque or bank statement)
• IEC certificate
• GSTIN certificate
• Company incorporation documents
• Authorised signatory proof

Common Mistakes

• Not registering AD Code at the port of import/export — each port requires separate registration
• Using a personal savings account — AD Code must be linked to a current account
• Not updating AD Code when changing banks — future customs transactions will fail
• Assuming one AD Code works for all branches — each port needs the specific branch code

Estimated Timeline and Process

Bank request (same day): Ask your bank for AD Code registration at the specific port.

ICEGATE linking (2–5 days): Bank submits AD Code to customs; you verify on ICEGATE.

Validation (1–2 days): Once active, you can pay duty or receive export credits.

How Sea Air Cargo Systems Can Help

We help first-time exporters and importers set up their AD Code at all major ports. Our team coordinates with banks and ICEGATE to ensure smooth linkage. Contact us for AD Code assistance.

What Is an AD Code?

AD Code (Authorised Dealer Code) is a 14-digit number issued by your bank that authorises it to handle foreign exchange transactions related to your exports and imports. Without an AD Code registered on ICEGATE, you cannot file Shipping Bills or pay customs duties electronically.

Documents Required for AD Code Registration

• AD Code letter from your bank on official letterhead
• IEC copy
• GSTIN certificate
• PAN card
• Board resolution or authorisation letter (for companies)

How to Register AD Code on ICEGATE

• Submit the AD Code letter to your bank's forex branch
• The bank uploads it to ICEGATE
• Verify registration in your ICEGATE profile within 2–3 working days
• Link the AD Code to your IEC for automatic duty payment and refund routing

Cost Factors to Plan For

AD Code registration itself is free. Bank charges for forex transactions vary (0.1–0.5% of transaction value). Without AD Code, you face manual payment delays and possible demurrage. Use our Shipping Bill Guide to understand the full export filing process.

Common Delays

• Bank letter not on official letterhead — ICEGATE rejects it
• IEC name mismatch — must match bank records exactly
• Multiple AD Codes — some importers accidentally register at multiple banks, causing confusion

When to Contact a CHA

A CHA can guide you through AD Code registration and ensure your ICEGATE profile is correctly configured. Contact Sea Air Cargo Systems for AD Code assistance.

Pro tip: If you switch banks, update your AD Code on ICEGATE immediately. Stale AD Codes cause shipping bill rejections and delay GST refunds by weeks.

Some exporters maintain multiple AD Codes for different business verticals. While permissible, this complicates GST refund tracking. Consolidate wherever possible to simplify reconciliation and audit trails.

Frequently Asked Questions