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India Port Code List – TradeExim

India’s global trade network depends on precise, standardised identifiers: port codes. Whether you export, import, or manage logistics, knowing the correct port code for seaports, airports, land ports, inland container depots (ICDs), or special economic zones (SEZs) is essential. TradeExim provides a comprehensive, updated India Port Code List to help you streamline customs clearance, file accurate GST returns, and ensure smooth shipping and trade compliance.

What is a Port Code?

A port code is a unique alphanumeric identifier assigned by Indian Customs and other regulatory authorities to locations involved in cross-border trade. These include major seaports, air cargo terminals, ICDs, border check posts, inland and land ports, and SEZs. Port codes are used in shipping bills, bills of entry, GST returns (especially for exports), and other documentation tied to the movement of goods. They ensure that shipments are correctly recorded, processed, and tracked at all stages of the supply chain.

Why Port Codes Matter

• Customs and Logistics Efficiency: Ensures that goods are routed correctly and avoids delays that arise from incorrect or missing port identifiers.
  
  
• GST Compliance: Under the Goods & Services Tax regime, exporters are required to specify port codes when filing returns (esp. Table 6A in GSTR-1). Claims for Input Tax Credit (ITC) and export incentives often depend on correct port code usage. Data mismatch can lead to rejected claims. 
• Data Accuracy and Trade Monitoring: Helps government authorities track trade flow, monitor exports and imports, and conduct verification. With accurate port code data, supply chain transparency improves.
  
  
• Legal & Regulatory Requirements: Various notifications by Customs, DGFT, CBIC, and other trade authorities refer to authorised port codes for export/import declarations. Using the wrong or outdated code may violate regulatory norms.
  
  

How Port Codes are Formed & Categorised

• Structure: Most port codes in India begin with “IN” (representing India) followed by other letters and digits which may refer to the port name, region, mode (sea, air, rail, road), or special status (SEZ, ICD).
  
  
• Modes:
    • Sea Ports – Major seaports for international sea trade (e.g. Mumbai, Chennai, Kandla, Vizag).
    • Airport Cargo Terminals – Ports handling air cargo at airports (e.g. Delhi Air Cargo, Kolkata Air Cargo).
    • Land or Border Ports / Land Customs Stations – For road or rail across land borders.
    • ICDs / Inland Ports / SEZs – Inland points that handle customs, transfer of containers, etc.
  
  

Sample Port Code List (India)

Below is a selection of port codes to illustrate how they look. For the complete list, you may download our PDF or access via our directory.

(Note: This is just a subset. Many more ports are included, covering all Indian states and all modes.)

How to Use the Port Code List

1. Locate the Proper Port Code: Identify whether your point of export/import is a seaport, ICD, airport, or land port.
   
   
2. Check the Mode: Some ports have multiple codes (for sea, air, SEZ etc.). Pick the one matching your mode of transport.
   
   
3. Confirm State/Region: Useful for verifying jurisdiction in customs/tax documentation.
   
   
4. Use in GST & Customs Documents: Ensure you enter the correct code in GSTR-1, GSTR-3B, export invoices, shipping bills, etc.
   
   
5. Keep Updated: Port codes may change, new ones added, or old ones modified. Always refer to the latest version of the list (e.g. via TradeExim’s downloadable PDF) or official sources like CBIC, DGFT.
   
   

Download the Complete India Port Code List (PDF)

You can get the full, updated India Port Code List including all ports — sea, air, land, ICDs, SEZs, and inland ports — by downloading the PDF here: [Download PDF] (Link to PDF).
We update the list regularly to incorporate new notifications by customs or government changes.

FAQs

Q: Is port code required for export under GST?
Yes — in most cases, when you are exporting goods, you must mention the correct port code in GST returns. Without correct port codes, claims for refund or incentives might be delayed or rejected. ClearTax

Q: What if I don’t know which port code to use for my location?
Check official sources such as CBIC’s Codes & Enquiry System, DGFT port details, or refer to lists from reputed trade-support platforms. Alternatively, contact your shipping agent or customs broker. TradeExim’s PDF also includes searchable entries to help you find the right code.

Q: Can a port have more than one code?
Yes. A single geographical port may have different codes depending on mode (air / sea), specialised terminal (SEZ, EPZ etc.), or even for ICD vs seaport usage. Always choose the one appropriate for your mode and type of transaction.

Q: Are port codes the same across different documents (GST, shipping, customs)?
Generally yes, provided they refer to the same port and mode. However, always ensure consistency — mismatches can cause compliance or clearance delays.