Importing goods into India often comes with one major challenge – delays at customs warehouses that increase storage costs and slow down delivery. For businesses that depend on timely shipments, these delays can hurt both profits and customer trust.
This is where Direct Port Delivery (DPD) comes in. By allowing importers to move goods directly from the port to their warehouse without going through a Container Freight Station (CFS), DPD simplifies logistics, reduces costs, and speeds up clearance.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the DPD registration process in India, the documents required, and the key benefits it brings for importers. Whether you operate at JNPT Mumbai or any other major port in India, this step-by-step resource will help you register with confidence and start leveraging the advantages of DPD.
What is Direct Port Delivery (DPD) in India?
Before you begin the DPD registration procedure it is important to be aware of the details of what Direct Port Delivery (DPD) entails. DPD is a method of delivery that permits importers to get their goods at the point of entry and then have them delivered directly to the destination without having to go through the customs warehouse. This means that there is no requirement for storage as well as the associated costs, speeding the whole delivery process.
Direct Port Delivery India, service is especially beneficial for companies who need to get their items quickly, like manufacturers or retail industries. By using Direct Port Delivery shipping allows you to simplify you supply chain cut down on the cost of logistics, and increase your overall efficiency.
Why DPD Registration is Important for Importers
The registration process for DPD is essential for companies who regularly import goods. This registration allows you to manage customs clearance, and to have your merchandise shipped at an import port directly to your specified place of delivery without any delays or fees. It has numerous advantages such as:
Speedier Deliveries: DPD significantly reduces the time required to deliver items through the ports to your warehouse or premises.
Cost savings: by avoiding customs warehouses, you can eliminate storage charges and cut down on the overall cost of logistics.
Transparency and control: You gain more visibility into your shipments and can track them more effectively, improving control over your inventory.
DPD Registration Requirements & Documents
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Submit a request to Customs
The first step for availing Direct Port Delivery is to formally approach the Customs department with a request. The importer (or their Customs Broker/CHA) must submit an application expressing the intent to use the DPD facility. This request is usually accompanied by business credentials like IEC, GST, and compliance history, to demonstrate eligibility.
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Receive LOP (Letter of Permission) from Customs
Once the Customs authorities review the application and find the importer compliant, they issue a Letter of Permission (LOP). This document is crucial because it officially authorizes the importer to clear consignments under the DPD mode, allowing goods to be delivered directly to their warehouse without first going to a Container Freight Station (CFS).
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Apply for terminal registration
After receiving the LOP, the importer needs to apply for registration at the specific port terminal where the goods will arrive. Each terminal maintains its own system and requires importers to register their details (company profile, contact details, etc.) to allow seamless coordination for container delivery.
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Open a Payment Deposit (PD) account
To simplify payments for port handling charges, shipping line dues, and terminal services, the importer must open a PD Account with the port/terminal. This works like a prepaid digital wallet that ensures timely payment, avoids cash transactions, and speeds up container release.
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Get a unique DPD code
Once the terminal registration and PD account setup are complete, the port/terminal issues a unique DPD code to the importer. This code identifies the importer in the system and is quoted for every shipment arriving under DPD. Without this code, the terminal cannot link containers to the importer for direct delivery.
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Register transporters and trailers
Since containers under DPD move directly from the port to the importer’s facility, it is mandatory to register the transport companies, drivers, and trailers with the terminal. This ensures that only authorized and verified vehicles can pick up DPD containers, maintaining port security and
Required documents for DPD registration
For Customs (LOP application):
When you apply to Customs for the Letter of Permission (LOP) to use DPD, you need to submit:
- Request letter from importer → A formal application stating you want to use DPD.
- PAN card copy → Proof of the company’s tax identity.
- Importer-Exporter Code (IEC) certificate → Mandatory license for international trade.
- GST certificate → Confirms your company’s GST registration for tax compliance.
- Letter of Authorization for Customs Broker (if applicable) → If a Customs Broker (CHA) is filing on your behalf, you must authorize them officially.
- AEO certificate (if available) → If your company is an Authorized Economic Operator, it adds credibility and may ease approval.
For Port Terminal Registration:
Once you have Customs permission, you must also register with the port terminal where your goods will arrive. For this, you’ll need:
- Customs permission letter / public notice → Proof that Customs has granted DPD permission.
- Self-attested PAN, GST & IEC copies → To verify your company’s identity and trade compliance.
- KYC documents (address proof, etc.) → Additional identity and address verification for company records.
Step-by-Step DPD Registration Process in India
After you’ve collected all the necessary documents then the following step will be to start with the DPD registration procedure. Here’s how you can go about the process with ease:
Step 1: Access the DPD Registration Portal
A majority of ports and customs authorities offer an online portal for DPD registration. Start by going to the DPD registration website for the port from which your goods will arrive. I’t is usually a simple website that allows you to submit your registration information.
Step 2: Complete the Registration Form
Complete your registration application with all of your company’s details, which include the Importer Exporter Code (IEC), GST registration details, and your customs registration numbers. Double-check for accuracy, as any missteps can cause delays.
Step 3: Upload Required Documents
Send all necessary documentation with your company’s identification number, customs registration number, proof of customs duty payments as well as any other documents required. Documents will then be inspected and it is essential to ensure that all information is accurate.
Step 4: Pay Applicable Fees
Certain regions might need a registration fee to avail DPD-related services. Make sure you pay the payment according to instructions. The amount you pay could vary according to your location or the volume of packages you’re dealing with.
Step 5: Wait for Approval
After you’ve completed the application form and paid the fees Your application will then be scrutinized. This could take anything between a couple of days to several weeks, dependent on the port used and the amount in registrations that they’re processing.
Step 6: Receive Registration Confirmation
After being approved, you’ll be notified that you have been approved for DPD registration and you can start making use of DPD’s shipping immediately. Once approved your business can begin to process products right at the point of delivery and benefit of speedier delivery times.
Step 7: Start Using DPD Services
Once you’ve registered, you’re able to begin using the DPD courier services. This includes the capability to follow the progress of your DPD parcels and handle shipments directly and ensure that your items are delivered to you in the fastest way possible.
Common Challenges & Tips for Smooth Registration
This DPD registration procedure is relatively easy However, there are a few frequent mistakes to avoid that can cause delays in the approval process. Here are some guidelines to make sure your process runs smoothly.
Make Sure All Documents are Correct and Complete: Incorrect or missing documents are among the most frequent reasons for the delay of Registration for DPD. Check all documents before submitting.
Get a professional Customs Broker: If you’re not familiar about the process of registering for customs it’s best to engage an experienced customs broker who will help you understand your DPD registration rules.
Keep Up-to-date with Regulations: Customs regulations may be changed, particularly those pertaining to Direct Port Delivery India. Stay informed of any changes to the regulations in order to ensure you are not affected by registration issues.
Utilize DPD Customer Service: If you encounter any difficulties regarding the registration process or shipping procedure, don’t hesitate to call DPD Customer Service to seek assistance. They will assist you in ensuring that your items are properly delivered and cleared.
Benefits of Direct Port Delivery for Importers
After you’ve authorized, you can begin using Direct Port Delivery benefits. These advantages are essential to improving your logistics as well as overall efficiency of the supply chain
Faster Delivery: by removing the requirement that goods be shipped through customs warehouses you will receive your shipments faster, which reduces wait periods and bringing your products to market faster.
Cost savings: DPD shipping reduces warehousing costs because the merchandise is delivered directly to your premises via the port. This could be a substantial cost savings for companies that have high volumes of imports.
Improved Control over Shipping: DPD parcel services let you better manage your shipments. You’ll be able to see where your items are during your Direct Port delivery process which allows to better track and manage your shipment.
Streamlined Customs Clearance: Because the goods are cleared right through the ports, there’s no need to go through customs warehouses. This leads to quicker clearance and less delay.
simplified logistics: When you use the DPD shipping it is an efficient logistics process, which allows you to more easily manage the shipments. This reduces delays and a greater overall operational efficiency.
Why Choose Abhyansh Shipping for DPD Registration at JNPT & Other Ports
Experience on Direct Port Delivery: With many decades of expertise in Direct Port Logistics for Delivery, Abhyansh Shipping can assist you with the registration process to ensure that your packages are delivered promptly and efficiently.
global reach: If you’re shipping internationally or locally, we can provide an efficient International DPD courier services to ensure that your items arrive at the destination on time regardless of where they’re heading.
Complete Support from DPD Customer Service: to assisting you to track your DPD parcels with real time tracking, we provide end-to-end support to make your shipping experience as simple as is possible.
cost-effective solutions: for DPD Shipping along with DPD’s parcel services, we ensure that you get the most price for your logistics requirements without sacrificing the quality.
Timely Delivery and Transparency: Speedy Delivery, Transparency and Timely Deliveries It doesn’t matter if the issue is Delivery by DPD or monitoring the status of a DPD sent parcel, Abhyansh Shipping offers transparency throughout the process and ensures you are aware of about the progress of your packages.
Conclusion
Direct Port Delivery (DPD) is no longer just an option, it has become a strategic necessity for importers in India who want to cut down on delays, reduce costs, and gain better control over their supply chain. By registering for DPD, businesses can avoid unnecessary storage charges at CFS, ensure quicker clearance at ports like JNPT Mumbai, and deliver goods to their warehouses faster and more efficiently.
Whether you’re an established importer or just starting out, understanding the DPD registration requirements and process can give your business a competitive edge in international trade. With the right documentation, compliance, and expert guidance, you can unlock the full benefits of Direct Port Delivery and streamline your logistics operations.
Ready to experience faster customs clearance and lower logistics costs with Direct Port Delivery (DPD)? At Abhyansh Shipping, we specialize in helping importers register for DPD at JNPT Mumbai and other major Indian ports, ensuring a smooth, hassle-free process.