In the import logistics arena, particularly with Indian Customs procedures, IGM status is a term you just cannot do away with. Whether you are an importer, a freight forwarder, or a CHA (Customs House Agent), monitoring your cargo’s IGM status is essential to facilitate a seamless clearance and delivery process.
At Afleo Logistics, we’re committed to making compliance easy for our customers. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through what is IGM status, why it is important, and how to verify it step-by-step with snapshots. We’ll also delve into common errors, tips, and how Afleo can assist you in hassle-free logistics.
What is IGM (Import General Manifest)?
IGM stands for Import General Manifest. It’s a Document filed by the shipping line or their representative with Indian Customs prior to the arrival of the vessel at the port of discharge. This manifest contains all the cargo that will be discharged at a certain Indian port.
Consider it as a cargo declaration or a customs alert – a document containing all shipment details to be sent to Indian Customs. Customs will not accept any clearance activities without IGM filing.
IGM filing is Mandatory according to the Customs Act, 1962. It ensures that the authorities know what cargo is coming into India, and they can manage clearance, taxes, compliance, and inspections where needed.
What Does an IGM Contain?
An IGM comprises fundamental details including:
- Master & House Bill of Lading Numbers
- Shipper and Consignee Information
- Ship’s Name and Voyage Number
- Gross Weight and Cargo Description
- Container Number and Container Type
- Package Number
- Port of Origin and Port of Discharge
- Importer’s IEC Code
This information facilitates customs officers to authenticate, monitor, and sanction the cargo for timely clearance.
What is IGM Status?
IGM Status is the status of processing your IGM file by Indian Customs at present. It indicates whether the shipping line has:
- Filed the IGM
- If the cargo reached the Indian port
- If there is any error or mismatch pending
- If the file has been properly approved and entered by Customs
Periodically verifying your IGM status avoids expensive delays and facilitates timely clearance and movement of cargo. It is particularly critical for:
- Importers
- CHAs (Custom House Agents)
- Freight forwarders
- Supply chain coordinators
How to Check IGM Status Online?
Let’s proceed with the simple steps to check your IGM status online, with visual guide points from the ICEGATE portal.
Step 1: Visit the Official ICEGATE Portal
Visit: https://enquiry.icegate.gov.in/enquiryatices/seaIgmEntry
Or just type “ICEGATE SEA IGM Status” in Google and click the official ICEGATE website.
Step 2: Fill in Required Details
After reaching the SEA IGM Enquiry web page, fill the form like this:
- Select Location – Select the destination port (for example, INNSA1 for Nhava Sheva).
- Enter Master BL Number – This is the number given on the Bill of Lading issued by your shipping line.
- Enter Captcha Code – Enter the CAPTCHA that appears on screen to confirm you’re a human user.
Click Submit.
Note: This is how the page will appear.
Step 3: View the IGM Status Output
Once submitted, the system shows all applicable IGM information:
- IGM Number and Date
- INW Date (Arrival in Indian Waters)
- BL Number and Cargo Movement Type
- Gross Weight, Number of Packages
- Port of Discharge
- Container Number and Container Status
- Vessel and Voyage Details
- Description of Goods
Click on the View button next to “Container Details” for detailed information on the shipment.
Note: This is how the page will appear.
Reading the Data on the Output Page
Here’s a brief explanation of each field:
| Field | Description |
|---|---|
| BL No | Master Bill of Lading number |
| IGM Date | Date on which IGM was filed with customs |
| INW Date | Date and time vessel entered Indian Waters |
| Cargo Movement | Type of cargo movement (e.g., LC = Liner Container) |
| Gross Weight | Total cargo weight in KGs |
| Desc of Goods | Description of goods as declared |
| Port Destination | Final Indian port where cargo is to be discharged |
| Container Details | Button to see detailed container number & status |
Why You Should Check Your IGM Status Regularly?
Here’s why it is an essential task to check your IGM status in the import process:
1. Prevention of Clearance Delay
If your IGM is incomplete, submitted late or has inaccuracies, customs clearance will be delayed, leading to demurrage charges or storage fees.
2. Indian Customs Compliance
IGM status guarantees your papers are properly filed and approved by Customs. This prevents legal complications and keeps you in compliance.
3. Error Detection and Correction
BL number, name of consignee or container discrepancies can be caught early if you review the IGM status. Mistakes can then be corrected before clearance begins.
4. Plan Delivery and Logistics
Once cargo status is ascertained, you can arrange with CHAs and transporters to plan deliveries and prevent warehouse congestion.
Avoid Common IGM-Related Errors
The following are some common mistakes which can lead to delays:
| Mistake | Consequence |
|---|---|
| Wrong container number filed | Customs mismatch – clearance blocked |
| IGM filed under wrong consignee | Consignee cannot file Bill of Entry |
| Delay in IGM filing | Penalties and missed delivery slots |
| Duplicate IGM numbers | Technical error – may require refiling |
| Misdeclaration of goods | Legal issues, increased inspections, or penalties |
Pro Tips from Afleo Logistics
- Always ask for a copy of the IGM or for an ICEGATE screenshot from the shipping line.
- Use proper IEC code and port code to prevent mismatch problems.
- File documents ahead of time and double-check all entries for inaccuracies.
- Plan with your CHA prior to vessel arrival to prevent delays in filing BoE.
Services We Provide at Afleo
Dealing with the import process need not be stressful. At Afleo Logistics, we are experts at making your compliance and cargo tracking easy. We provide:
- CHA Services – Customs clearance documentation and filing
- Freight Forwarding – Sea & air freight solutions
- IGM Filing & Tracking – Timely and accurate filing
- Container Tracking – Live tracking and alerts
- Client Support – Complete guidance on your shipments
From one-off shipments to import projects, we make sure it reaches you on time and in compliance.
Smarter Shipping Begins Now – Discover Our Complete Digital Freight Platform.
Need assistance with IGM or Customs?
Let Afleo be your logistics best friend for hassle-free import processes. Our professionals will assist you in cargo tracking, documentation filing, and handling your shipments from port to warehouse.
Reach Out:
Website: www.afleo.com
Call/WhatsApp: +91 9321890890
Email: info@kevalshah74.svaomega.comFinal Thoughts
Understanding and checking IGM status is a small but crucial part of the bigger logistics picture. Don’t leave it to chance as errors here can cost time, money, and effort. With Afleo’s guidance and services, you’ll always stay on top of your cargo’s journey.
Stay updated. Stay compliant. Ship smart with Afleo.