Pigeon Worldwide

Documents needed to courier abroad (KYC)

KYC documents Indian customs needs for international courier: Aadhaar, PAN, passport for individuals; GSTIN, IEC and invoices for businesses — plus what to write on the invoice.

In short: Every export needs the sender's KYC: Aadhaar, PAN, passport, voter ID or driving licence for individuals; GSTIN (and IEC for commercial exports) for businesses. We prepare the invoice/packing list with you.

Indian customs requires the sender's identity (KYC) for every international courier shipment. Having the right documents ready means your parcel leaves on time.

Individuals (personal, gift, student parcels)

  • One photo ID with address: Aadhaar, PAN, passport, voter ID or driving licence (self-attested copy)
  • Your mobile number and email
  • Receiver's full address, postcode and phone number

Businesses and commercial shipments

  • GSTIN and company KYC
  • IEC (Importer-Exporter Code) for commercial exports
  • Commercial invoice with HS codes, unit values and currency
  • Any product-specific certificates (for example, phytosanitary certificates for plant products)

What goes on the invoice

  • A clear description of each item in English (“Cotton saree”, not “Clothes”)
  • Quantity and a fair value per item
  • Purpose: gift, personal effects, sample or sale
  • HS code — use our HS code checker

Special items

  • Medicines: prescription and doctor's letter.
  • Electronics: battery installed in the device.
  • Original certificates: keep scans; we pack them flat in secure envelopes.

Not sure? WhatsApp us a photo of your items and we will tell you exactly what is needed.

Frequently asked questions

Is Aadhaar enough to send a courier abroad?

Yes, for personal shipments a self-attested copy of Aadhaar (or PAN, passport, voter ID or driving licence) is accepted as sender KYC.

Do businesses need an IEC?

Commercial exports need an Importer-Exporter Code (IEC) and GSTIN. Samples and gifts may follow simpler rules — ask us.

Who prepares the invoice?

We prepare the invoice and packing list with you at booking, using your item list and values.

Ready to ship?

Doorstep pickup, packing advice and customs paperwork handled by our team.

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