AD Code Registration for Export – Globax Solutions

Starting an export business from India involves more than just obtaining an IEC (Importer Exporter Code). One of the most important yet often overlooked requirements is AD Code Registration for Export. This code enables your shipments to legally pass through Indian Customs and ensures you receive foreign payments into your bank account. Without it, you can’t generate a Shipping Bill, which is essential for exporting goods.
At Globax Solutions, we help exporters like you register your Authorized Dealer (AD) Code properly, link it with ICEGATE, and complete port-specific activation so your export journey is seamless and fully compliant.
Let’s dive deeper into what AD Code registration is, why it’s required, how the process works, and how Globax makes it easy for exporters to go global.
What is AD Code and Why is it Important for Exporters?
AD Code stands for Authorized Dealer Code, a 14-digit numerical code issued by a bank (usually your current account bank) that is authorized to deal in foreign exchange. This code links your export transactions with the port of shipment and is mandatory for generating Shipping Bills on the ICEGATE (Indian Customs EDI Gateway) portal.
Without completing AD Code registration for export, your shipments won’t be allowed to clear Indian Customs, even if your IEC is valid. Moreover, your foreign currency payments may not be processed properly, resulting in delayed or stuck transactions.
In short, it’s the bridge between your bank, DGFT, and ICEGATE—and registering it correctly is vital for your business.
Key Benefits of AD Code Registration for Export
1. Enables Shipping Bill Filing:
The Shipping Bill is the most important document for Customs clearance. Without an AD Code linked to your IEC and port, you cannot generate this bill through ICEGATE.
2. Smooth Customs Clearance:
AD Code allows customs to track your export transactions and match them with the foreign currency received in your bank, ensuring compliance and transparency.
3. Bank Verification of Export Proceeds:
Your bank uses the AD Code to verify inward foreign remittances against your export invoices. This ensures the legal inflow of funds under FEMA regulations.
4. Compliance with DGFT & Customs:
AD Code registration ensures your business is recognized by Indian Customs, RBI, DGFT, and your bank. This single code keeps your records clean and transparent.
Required Documents for AD Code Registration
To register your AD Code for export, you will need the following:
- Valid IEC Certificate (Importer Exporter Code)
- Cancelled cheque or bank certificate with AD Code mentioned
- GST Registration Certificate
- Company PAN
- Letter requesting registration of AD Code
- Port name for which registration is sought
Each port (e.g., Mundra, Nhava Sheva, Kolkata) requires a separate registration if you’re exporting from multiple locations.
Understanding ICEGATE and Its Link to AD Code
ICEGATE (Indian Customs Electronic Gateway) is the online platform for exporters and importers to file Shipping Bills, Bill of Entry, and other customs-related documents. To use this system, your IEC and AD Code must be properly registered and activated.
The AD Code registration for export is incomplete unless it is activated through ICEGATE and linked with a specific Customs Port. Once done, you will be able to:
- File shipping bills electronically
- Upload commercial invoices and packing lists
- Get export documents verified online
- Receive customs clearance notifications
Globax Solutions ensures this entire linking process is done efficiently, avoiding rejections or delays at the Customs end.
How to Complete AD Code Registration for Export
Step 1: Obtain AD Code from Your Bank
Contact your bank (the one you use for export payments) and request an official letter stating your 14-digit AD Code.
Step 2: Prepare Documentation
Ensure you have a valid IEC, GST certificate, PAN, and a request letter on company letterhead.
Step 3: Submit to Customs at Port
Submit your documents to the Customs Department at your export port. If you use a Customs House Agent (CHA), they will assist you in submitting these to the correct officer.
Step 4: Activation on ICEGATE
Once approved, your AD Code will be activated and linked to your IEC for that specific port. You can now file Shipping Bills digitally via ICEGATE.
Step 5: Verification and Testing
Login to ICEGATE with your credentials, and you should see your port and AD Code active under your IEC profile.
Globax offers full assistance through each step, ensuring error-free submission and follow-up with Customs for fast activation.
AD Code Registration for Multiple Ports
If you are exporting from more than one location (for example, both Nhava Sheva and ICD Tughlakabad), you must register your AD Code for each port separately. This allows ICEGATE to recognize which shipment is departing from which location and helps avoid mismatches.
Globax Solutions assists with multi-port registration and maintenance so your goods can move from any location without documentation issues.
Can AD Code Be Changed or Updated?
Yes, if you change your bank or open a new export account, your AD Code will also change. You must notify Customs and update your AD Code registration accordingly.
In such cases, Globax helps with:
- Cancelling previous AD Code entries
- Submitting fresh AD Code certificates
- Reactivating new codes on ICEGATE
- Updating records with Customs and DGFT
Staying updated ensures uninterrupted export flow and compliance with RBI norms.
Common Mistakes Exporters Make (And How to Avoid Them)
Assuming IEC is enough:
IEC is the starting point, but AD Code registration for export is just as important for clearance.
Using unverified AD Codes:
Submitting handwritten or outdated AD Code letters from banks leads to rejection. Globax ensures you get an approved format.
Not activating on ICEGATE:
Many businesses assume submission at port is the end. But ICEGATE activation is crucial. We take care of both steps.
Missing port-specific registrations:
Exporting from multiple ports without proper AD Code setup can result in blocked shipments. We handle all ports for you.
How Globax Simplifies AD Code Registration for Export
Here’s what we handle for you:
Collecting documents from your team
Requesting and verifying AD Code from your bank
Drafting application letters and supporting docs
Submitting everything to port customs
Following up until ICEGATE activation is confirmed
Coordinating across multiple ports if needed
Updating new AD Codes when you switch banks
Whether you’re a first-time exporter or scaling up shipments, Globax Solutions ensures your AD Code process is smooth, correct, and compliant.
Real Exporters, Real Results
Case 1 – Textile Exporter from Surat:
The client had IEC but couldn’t file shipping bills due to missing AD Code registration. Globax handled the full process in 3 working days, linked it with ICEGATE, and activated codes for 2 ports. The exporter shipped goods worth ₹50 lakhs in the first month.
Case 2 – Agro Exporter from Lucknow:
Client wanted to ship from Kolkata and Mumbai ports. We arranged multiple port registrations and guided their CHA on correct code usage, helping them avoid ₹1.2 lakhs in penalty due to document mismatch.
Final Thoughts: Start Your Export Journey the Right Way
The world of international trade demands precision and documentation. Don’t let your growth be stopped due to a missing code. With Globax Solutions, your AD Code Registration for Export is handled professionally, quickly, and with zero errors.
We don’t just fill forms—we make sure your export business is DGFT-compliant, ICEGATE-ready, and 100% legally functional.
Contact us for more details of & Your registration
Our team will be happy to assist you
Mobile: +91-790-200-2800