ICEGATE AD Code Registration

In India, every exporter must complete a process known as AD Code Registration to ensure smooth customs clearance of their export shipments. This registration must be completed on the ICEGATE portal, which is the official e-commerce gateway of the Indian Customs Department.

The AD (Authorised Dealer) Code is a 14-digit numerical code issued by the bank that handles the exporter's foreign exchange transactions. Registering this code on ICEGATE is mandatory for linking the exporter’s bank details with the Customs system, enabling the processing of shipping bills and generation of export documentation at ports.

What is an AD Code?

An AD Code, short for Authorised Dealer Code, is provided by the exporter's bank (which is authorised by the Reserve Bank of India to deal in foreign currency). The code uniquely identifies the bank branch through which export transactions are handled.

This code is used by the customs department to track the flow of foreign exchange and ensure that export proceeds are being routed through authorized banking channels.

Why is AD Code Registration Required on ICEGATE?

Registering your AD Code on the ICEGATE portal ensures that:

• Exporters can file shipping bills electronically at any customs port

• Bank details are verified and linked with the IEC (Importer Exporter Code)

• Customs authorities can directly credit export incentives (RoDTEP, RoSCTL, MEIS, etc.)

• There is no delay or rejection in customs clearance

• Export payments are correctly tracked for compliance with FEMA and RBI norms

Failure to register the AD Code on ICEGATE means that the exporter will not be able to generate shipping bills, effectively halting export operations.

Where Do You Need to Register Your AD Code?

You must register your AD Code for every port from which you intend to export. Each port requires separate AD Code registration, even if the code and bank remain the same. This port-wise mapping enables ICEGATE and customs authorities to process your export documentation at the respective location.

Documents Required for AD Code Registration on ICEGATE

To register an AD Code, the following documents are typically required:

• Copy of 14-digit AD Code letter issued by the bank on their letterhead

• Copy of the IEC Certificate

• Cancelled cheque or bank certificate for verifying account details

• Copy of the GST Certificate, if applicable

• Authorisation letter from the firm along with the Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) of the authorised signatory

All documents should be in proper format, self-attested, and uploaded in the ICEGATE system during the registration process.

Step-by-Step Process for ICEGATE AD Code Registration

1. Obtain AD Code: Contact your bank and request the 14-digit AD Code issued for your IEC and export account.

2. Visit the ICEGATE Portal: Go to Offical Site  and log in with your registered IEC credentials.

3. Navigate to AD Code Registration Section: Under the “Bank Account Management” or “AD Code Registration” menu, select the option to add a new code.

4. Fill in the Details: Enter your IEC, branch address, bank details, and select the customs port where you wish to register.

5. Upload Required Documents: Upload PDF versions of the required documents including the bank letter, IEC, and others.

6. Authenticate with DSC: Complete the submission using the Digital Signature Certificate of the authorised signatory.

7. Track Status: After submission, you can track the status of your application on ICEGATE. Upon approval, the AD Code gets mapped with the selected port.

Once approved, you are allowed to generate shipping bills from that port and export goods without obstruction.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Uploading an AD Code letter that is not in the prescribed bank format

• Forgetting to register the code for each individual port of export

• Mismatch in IEC and bank details

• Using an expired or incorrect DSC

• Attempting to register before IEC activation on ICEGATE

These mistakes can delay customs clearance and shipment schedules.

Benefits of Proper AD Code Registration

• Smooth and uninterrupted clearance of export shipments

• Automatic linkage of bank accounts with DGFT and customs for incentive credits

• Easy filing of shipping bills and documentation via ICEGATE

• Transparent and traceable foreign exchange transactions

• Compliance with RBI and FEMA guidelines

Having your AD Code properly registered is not just a formality—it is a legal requirement for facilitating exports.

How YKG Global Assists You

At YKG Global, we simplify the entire AD Code registration process for exporters. Our services include:

• End-to-end coordination with your bank for AD Code issuance

• Preparation and formatting of required documents

• ICEGATE login support and portal registration

• Port-wise AD Code mapping for multiple export locations

• Fast-tracking registration and resolving ICEGATE errors

• Post-registration support for shipping bill issues

With decades of experience in handling customs and DGFT formalities, our experts ensure that your exports are not delayed due to registration gaps or technical errors.