📦 1. Proper Business Setup

• You must have a registered business (Proprietorship, LLP, or Company)
• Import Export Code (IEC) from Directorate General of Foreign Trade (mandatory for international shipping)

📑 2. Documentation

You cannot ship without proper documents:

• Commercial Invoice
• Packing List
• Bill of Lading (B/L) – issued by shipping line
• Shipping Bill (for export, filed through customs)
• Certificate of Origin (if required)
• Product-specific certificates (like FSSAI for food)

🚢 3. Choose Shipping Mode & Container TypeDepending on your goods:

• FCL (Full Container Load) – full container for your cargo
• LCL (Less than Container Load) – shared container

Container types:

• Dry container (general goods)
• Reefer container (for perishables like prawns)
• Open top / flat rack (for heavy machinery)

🏗️ 4. Packaging & Labeling

• Strong export-quality packaging
• Proper labeling:
  • Product name
  • Weight
  • Country of origin
  • Handling instructions

For your dry prawn business, moisture-proof packaging is critical.

⚖️ 5. Customs Clearance

• Goods must comply with Indian customs rules
• Filing through ICEGATE system
• Duties/taxes (if applicable)
• Inspection (if required)

Handled via:

• Customs broker / CHA (Clearing House Agent)

🚛 6. Logistics & Freight Forwarder

You typically need a freight forwarder who handles:

• Booking container
• Transport to port
• Documentation support
• Coordination with shipping lines

🌍 7. Destination Country Requirements

Import regulations of buyer country (e.g., UAE)

• Food items need strict compliance:
  • Health certificate
  • Quality standards
  • Packaging norms

💰 8. Cost & Payment Terms

Understand:

• Freight charges
• Port charges
• Customs clearance fees
• Inland transport

Common trade terms:

• FOB (Free On Board)
• CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight)

🔒 9. Insurance

• Marine insurance to protect against:
  • Damage
  • Loss
  • Delays

📍 10. Port SelectionChoose nearest major port:

• Cochin Port (best option for you in Kerala)

⚠️ Reality Check (Important)

Container shipping is not “small-scale friendly” at the start:

• High minimum quantity
• Documentation complexity
• Upfront cost

👉 For beginners (like your dry prawn idea), starting with:

• LCL shipments
• Or air cargo for small trial exports
  is often smarter.