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CERTIFICATE OF ORIGIN (COO)

What is a Certificate of Origin?

A Certificate of Origin (COO) is an important trade document used in international shipments. It certifies the country where the goods have been manufactured or produced. Customs authorities across the world rely on this certificate to verify the origin of goods before allowing them to enter their country.

Example:

An Indian company named ABC Electricals Pvt. Ltd. exports LED Lights to a buyer in Dubai (UAE). Before the goods are shipped, the buyer asks for a Certificate of Origin to confirm that the LED lights are manufactured in India.

Why is Certificate of Origin Necessary?

A Certificate of Origin (COO) is essential because it proves where the goods are manufactured. Most countries will not allow imported goods to pass customs without confirming the origin. Therefore, exporters must register and obtain a COO before shipping.

  1. Mandatory for Custom Clearnace
  2. Required to claim lower Import duty
  3. Complaince with international Trade rules
  4. Smooth Banking and documentation rules
  5. Required by Buyers

Who Can apply for Certificate of Origin?

  • Manufacturer Exporter
  • Merchant Exporters
  • Auhtorized Custom Broker/CHA
  • Freight Forwarder(with auhtorisation)

Valid IEC, Export Invoice and packing list are necessary.

Various Types of  Certificate of Origin (COO)

1. Preferential Certificate of Origin

Issued for exports covered under Free Trade Agreements (FTA) or Preferential Trade Agreements (PTA) such as:

  • India–ASEAN FTA

  • SAFTA

  • India–Japan CEPA

  • India–Korea CEPA

A preferential COO helps the importer avail reduced or zero customs duty.

2. Non-Preferential Certificate of Origin

Issued when goods are exported without claiming any duty benefit under trade agreements. Many buyers and customs authorities require this certificate only to verify the actual origin of the goods.

Information included in Certificate of Origin (COO)

A Certificate of Origin includes:

  • Exporter details

  • Importer details

  • Product description & HSN Code

  • Country of Origin

  • Quantity and invoice details

  • Signature & seal of issuing authority

Certificate of Origin registration Procedure

The registration process includes the following steps:

1. Register your Exporter Profile

Requirement

  • IEC (Import Export Code)
  • Company Details
  • Authorized signatory details
  • Digital Signature Certificte (DSC)

2. Select the Type of COO

Choose the certificate based on your export requirement:

  • Preferential COO – If exporting under trade agreements (FTA/CEPA/SAFTA etc.) for duty benefits

  • Non-Preferential COO – For normal exports without duty concession

3. Fill the Application Form

Enter all shipment-related information:

  • Exporter & importer details

  • Invoice number and date

  • Packing list details

  • Shipping bill details (if available)

  • Port of loading & destination

  • Product details with HSN Code

  • Country of origin (India)

Make sure all details match your invoice.

4. Upload Required Documents

Common documents include:

  • Commercial Invoice

  • Packing List

  • Purchase order / Letter of credit

  • Manufacturing declaration

Some issuing authorities may ask for additional documents depending on product type.

5. Pay the Applicable Fees

Pay the registration or certificate issuance fee online through:

  • Net banking

  • UPI

  • Debit/credit card

Fees vary depending on the issuing agency.

6. Document Verification

The issuing authority (DGFT / EPC / Chamber) will verify:

  • Correctness of product origin

  • Consistency of invoice and packing list

  • Manufacturer details (if needed)

If clarification is required, the authority may ask for supporting documents.

7. Issuance of Certificate of Origin

Once approved:

  • A digitally signed COO is generated

  • You can download the COO in PDF format

  • This certificate is shared with the importer for customs clearance

Does a Certificate of Origin (COO) need Renewal?

No, COO cannot be “renewed.”

If the COO expires or if the shipment is delayed, a new COO must be issued.

Required Documents for Certificate of Origin (COO)

  1. Commercial Invoice
  2. Packing List
  3. IEC (Import Export Code)
  4. Manufacturer’s Declaration
  5. Purchase order/ Letter of Credit
  6. Shipping Bill
  7. Products Details with HSN Code
  8. Declaration/Undertaking by Exporter
  9. Authorisation Letter

Benefit of Certificate of Origin (COO)

  • Smooth & fast customs clearance

  • Eligibility for preferential tariff rates

  • Enhances credibility with foreign buyers

  • Ensures compliance with international trade rules

  • Prevents delays, penalties, or shipment hold

Common Errors to Avoid

  • Mismatch in Invoice and Application Details
  • Incorrect HSN Code
  • Incomplete Manufacturer’s Declaration
  • Incorrect Selection of COO Type
  • Not Providing Correct Product Origin Information
  • Submitting Application Without Checking FTA Rules

Why Choose Us for Certificate of Origin(COO) Services?

  • End-to-End COO Support
  • 100% Accuracy in Documentation
  • Fast Processing & Timely Delivery
  • Experience With Both Preferential & Non-Preferential COO
  • DGFT & Chamber Coordination
  • Strong Compliance & Verification Support

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is a Certificate of Origin (COO)?
A: A Certificate of Origin is an official document that certifies the country where the goods are manufactured. It is required for customs clearance, duty benefits, and verification by the importing country.

Q2: Why is a COO required?
A: COO is required for:

  • Customs clearance at the destination country

  • Claiming reduced or zero duty under trade agreements

  • Buyer requirements

  • Compliance with international trade rules

Q3: Who can apply for a COO?
A: Any manufacturer exporter, merchant exporter, or an authorized agent/CHA can apply for a Certificate of Origin.

Q4: Do I need a COO for every shipment?
A: Yes. Each shipment requires a separate Certificate of Origin.