Export Packaging from India: Compliance Checklist for Kerala Exporters

Export packaging is not just about protecting the product. The exporter should confirm product-specific, destination-country, transport-mode and packaging-material requirements before shipment.

Start with the product and destination

Identify the HS classification, destination market, buyer specification, mode of transport and whether the goods are food, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, machinery or another regulated category. Requirements can differ substantially.

Outer-pack and shipping-mark checklist

• Product and shipment identification.
• Quantity, gross/net weight and dimensions where required.
• Country-of-origin marking where required.
• Handling and orientation marks when appropriate.
• Buyer-specific carton, pallet or crate instructions.
• Batch, lot or traceability information where applicable.
• Transport documentation consistent with the physical shipment.

Wood packaging

Wooden pallets, crates and dunnage can be subject to phytosanitary and ISPM 15 requirements depending on the destination and material. Confirm the current importing-country requirements and use compliant treatment/marking where applicable.

Regulated or dangerous goods

Chemicals, batteries, pharmaceuticals and other controlled goods can trigger additional transport, labelling, safety-data and destination requirements. Never use a generic packaging checklist for a regulated product without checking the applicable authority and carrier rules.

Blueberry trade resources

• Import, Export & Trade India Hub
• Kerala Import/Export Business Guide
• Export Finance Hub
• Trust Centre

FAQ

Is one packaging standard valid for every export?

No. Requirements depend on the product, destination, transport mode, buyer specification and applicable regulations.

Is ISPM 15 relevant to every carton?

No. ISPM 15 concerns regulated wood packaging material, not ordinary paperboard cartons. Verify the destination-country rules for the actual packaging used.