TaxTMI 
TaxTMI 
TaxTMI 
You thought clearing shipments always takes 3-5 days?
Let me show you what the best D2C brands do ...
They get it done in under 24 hours.
Here’s how they pull it off:
1. Pre-upload on e-sanchit.
They never wait till the flight lands.
Invoices, packing lists, HSN codes, RCMC, Certificate of Origin ...
Everything goes into e-Sanchit before the shipment even touches ground.
No document chase.
No customs delay because “file not ready.”
2. No guesswork on HSN.
They don’t let a CHA or a random Google search decide classification.
They deep dive into Customs Tariff (in fact, that ask their consultant to do),
use advance rulings, legal notes ...
Obtain an expert certificate (eg Chartered Engineer’s certificate) if it’s technical.
Why?
Because one misclassification push the D2C out of business or years of legal battles.
3.They get AEO status.
Ever heard of Authorised Economic Operator (AEO)?
It’s voluntary ... and it works.
Faster clearance.
BG waivers.
Deferred duty payment.
Direct port entry/delivery.
Even 24×7 clearance if you want.
Next up…
4. Ledger never runs dry.
Customs will never release your goods…
If your ICEGATE Electronic Cash Ledger (ECL) is empty or mismatched.
Smart importers keep balance, match NEFT UTRs, clear the payment trail.
And lastly…
5. Their CHA is an extended team.
They don’t treat clearing agents like third-party vendors.
They train them on their SOPs, run mock filings, build import logic together.
So, when high-value shipments come, there’s no confusion, no last-minute calls.
The takeaway?
Big importers don’t always have an edge because of size ...
they have an edge because they plan for speed.
How smart D2C brands clear customs in hours… (While others wait for days.)
Unnathi Partners Private Ltd
Direct-to-consumer brands speed customs clearance using pre-uploaded docs, expert codes, and AEO status for faster processing Certain direct-to-consumer brands expedite customs clearance by pre-uploading all required documents on electronic platforms before shipment arrival, ensuring no delays due to incomplete files. They avoid misclassification by thoroughly researching tariff codes and obtaining expert certifications, minimizing legal risks. These brands obtain Authorised Economic Operator status to benefit from faster clearance, duty deferrals, and priority processing. Maintaining a sufficient and reconciled electronic cash ledger prevents payment-related release issues. Additionally, they closely integrate customs clearing agents into their operations through training and collaboration, reducing errors and last-minute complications. This strategic planning and proactive approach enable significantly faster customs clearance compared to typical delays. (AI Summary)