The import-export system of India is organized based on the number of seaports, airports, ICDs, and land customs stations there are. Each and every port that handles cargo is given a unique Port Code by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs (CBIC) for a much easier customs clearance, documentation, and cargo movement. These codes help in making sure that there's transparency, compliance, and accurate identification of the location from where goods enter or exit the country.

For businesses that are engaged in any of these international trade, they should use the correct Port Code which is really important for shipping documentation, ICEGATE filing, AD Code registration, GST LUT as well as customs procedures. In this blog, we will tell everything you need to know about the Port Code for Kunauli, located in the state of Bihar, with functional status as EDI enabled and EDI connectivity marked as YES.

What is the Port Code for Kunauli?

The official Port Code for Kunauli is INKNLB. This code is provided by CBIC and is used for all the import and export work.

This code is a 6-character number that is required for:

  • Filing Bill of Entry
  • Generating Shipping Bill
  • Registering AD Code
  • Tracking cargo movement
  • GST LUT and export invoice compliance

Port Codes are important for ports that handle containers, storage, and different types of transport. As a LCS, Kunauli handles shipments by land, rail, air, or sea, depending on its category.

Using the correct Port Code makes sure that your goods are cleared at the right customs office and helps avoid delays or rejection during filing.

Overview of Kunauli Port

The port identified by code INKNLB is strategically located in Bihar, making it an important node in the EXIM supply chain. It supports cargo operations such as:

  • Import of raw materials
  • Export of finished goods
  • Container stuffing and de-stuffing
  • Customs clearance and documentation
  • Warehousing and logistics support

Being categorized as a LCS, this station plays a vital role in facilitating international trade for businesses located in and around the region.

If YES, the port supports end-to-end digital processing through ICEGATE, enabling faster approval of shipping bills and bills of entry.

Importance of Port Codes in International Trade

Port codes are used in multiple layers of EXIM operations and here are some of the reasons why they are important:

Customs Documentation

Port codes essentially make sure that there is an accurate identification of the customs location in:

  • Bill of Entry
  • Shipping Bill
  • Delivery Order
  • EDI customs filings

AD Code Registration

Banks require you to provide the correct port code to generate the AD Codes for exporters. The AD Code registration is compulsory for receiving export payments.

GST LUT & Export Invoice

Port codes are majorly used to declare the place of export in invoices and LUT under GST.

Error-Free Filing on ICEGATE

Incorrect port codes can cause:

  • Filing rejections
  • Delays in clearance
  • Shipment hold

A valid 6-digit port code avoids these issues.

International Tracking

The first 6 digits of Indian import export documents (13-digit Bill of Entry number) represent the Port Code where goods are cleared.

How Port Codes Are Structured

The port code system in India have a standardized pattern:

  • IN - Represents India
  • Next 3 characters - Port location identifier
  • Last digit - Port type or extension code

For example, INKNLB which refers to Kunauli, making it easy to identify from other ICDs, ports, airports or LCS stations in Bihar.

Activities Covered at Kunauli

The port at Kunauli mostly handles:

  • Import clearance
  • Export documentation
  • LCL/FCL cargo movement
  • Container storage
  • Rail/road connectivity
  • Digital customs processing

This all depends on the station type, the port may also support bonded warehousing, hazardous cargo handling, and cold-chain logistics.

Why Using the Correct Port Code Matters

You need to choose the correct port code such as INKNLB to make sure:

  • Smooth customs clearance
  • Faster EXIM documentation
  • Accurate filing with DGFT, ICEGATE, and GST portal
  • Compliance with shipping regulations
  • Avoidance of penalties, delays, or document mismatch

Businesses that are using incorrect port codes often face shipment delays and compliance issues.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the Port Code of Kunauli?

The Port Code for Kunauli is INKNLB.

Which state is the port Kunauli located in?

It is located in Bihar.

Is Kunauli EDI enabled?

Status: YES.

What is the type of Kunauli port?

It is classified as a LCS.

Is this Port Code required for AD Code registration?

Yes, INKNLB is mandatory for AD Code registration at this port.

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