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Importing paper products into India now requires strict regulatory compliance under the Paper Import Monitoring System (PIMS). Introduced by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), PIMS registration is mandatory for all notified paper items falling under Chapter 48 of the ITC (HS) classification. Whether you are an importer handling air freight shipments or bulk consignments through sea freight, obtaining a PIMS Certificate and Unique Registration Number (URN) is essential to avoid customs delays, penalties or shipment rejection. This registration ensures transparency in paper imports, protects domestic manufacturers, and enables smoother customs clearance for international trade operations.
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For a customized and attractive quotation, please contact with your product details to Rekha Atri (+91 98118 03136) or Aditi Sharma (+91 78348 22004). 

Overview: 

The PIMS Certificate is a mandatory registration mechanism implemented by DGFT for monitoring the import of paper and paperboard products under Chapter 48 of the ITC (HS) code. It's a fairly simple, less time consuming and easy Unique Registration Number (URN) that an importer must obtain prior to customs clearance for eligible shipments. 

PIMS serves as a regulatory tool to track freight transport trends, prevent dumping and ensure fair pricing in paper imports. The system covers more than 200 tariff lines including newsprint, kraft paper, coated paper and specialty stationery products. 

Failure to obtain PIMS registration can result in shipment detention, clearance rejection, demurrage charges and operational disruptions at ports. 

Benefits: 

  • Seamless Custom Clearance: Avoids shipment holds and delays by ensuring URN availability at the time of Bill of Entry filing. 

  • Market Transparency: Helps regulate import volumes, curb under-invoicing and protect domestic manufacturers. 

  • Legal Compliance: Ensures adherence to DGFT regulations and prevents penalties or enforcement actions. 

  • Enhanced Credibility: Builds trust with customs authorities and strengthens your importer profile. 

  • Operational Continuity: Prevents additional freight costs caused by port congestion, detention and delayed cargo delivery. 

Documents Required: 

To ensure a smooth and error-free PIMS application, keep the following documents ready: 

  • Importer Exporter Code (IEC): Mandatory for all importers engaged in international trade. 

  • Digital Signature Certificate (DSC): Required for secure online filing on the DGFT portal. 

  • PAN & GST Registration: Business identity and tax compliance documents. 

  • Proforma Invoice / Purchase Order: Mentioning product value, quantity and supplier details. 

  • Product Details: HS Code (Chapter 48), country of origin and unit price. 

  • Shipment Information: Expected port of entry and mode of transport (air freight or sea freight). 

Fees and Timelines: 

Understanding the cost and timeline helps in better shipment planning and logistics management: 

  • Registration Fee: ₹500 per application. 

  • Application Window: Earliest: 75 days before expected shipment arrival

                                          Latest: 5 days before arrival. 

  • URN Validity: 75 days from the date of issuance. 

  • Processing Time: URN is usually generated instantly upon successful submission and payment. 

  • For a customised professional fee quotation, contact: 
    Rekha Atri: +91 98118 03136 
    Aditi Sharma (+91 78348 22004).  

Process to Apply: 

Follow these steps to obtain your PIMS Registration efficiently: 

  • Portal Login: Access the DGFT PIMS portal using your IEC credentials. 

  • Application Filing: Enter shipment details such as HS code, value, quantity and origin. 

  • Document Upload: Attach the proforma invoice and required supporting documents. 

  • Fee Payment: Pay the registration fee online through the portal. 

  • URN Generation: Receive your Unique Registration Number instantly upon approval. 

  • Customs Clearance: Declare the URN in the Bill of Entry for smooth clearance. 

Related Reads: 

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. PIMS registration is mandatory for both air freight and sea freight shipments for all notified paper products under Chapter 48.

The registration fee is minimal. However, non-compliance can lead to penalties, storage charges and demurrage, significantly increasing overall freight costs.

Yes. A single URN can be used for multiple Bills of Entry as long as they fall within the approved quantity and the 75-day validity period.

ikargos provides expert consultancy, end-to-end compliance support and logistics solutions for PIMS registration, customs clearance and freight coordination.

Yes. PIMS registration is mandatory even for SEZs, EOUs and FTWZ units importing covered paper products.
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