Moving goods across state lines in India involves a set of standard documents. Having them in order prevents delays at toll plazas, state borders, and delivery points. Here is what you need to know.
1. GST E-Way Bill
The e-way bill is mandatory for any consignment exceeding ₹50,000 in value. It must be generated on the GST portal (ewaybillgst.gov.in) before the goods are loaded. The transporter must carry a copy, and the e-way bill number must be referenced on the invoice.
For goods below ₹50,000, an e-way bill is not legally required, but many receivers still ask for one as a matter of good practice.
2. Tax Invoice / Bill of Supply
The shipper's GST invoice accompanies the goods. It details the consignor, consignee, goods description, HSN code, quantity, value, and GST amount. This is the primary document the e-way bill is based on.
3. Lorry Receipt (LR)
The lorry receipt is the transporter's acknowledgment that goods have been received in good condition. It records the consignment details, number of packages, weight, condition at loading, and the agreed delivery point. Keep the original LR — it is your proof of booking.
4. Goods Insurance Certificate
If you have opted for transit insurance (recommended for high-value or fragile cargo), the insurance certificate or policy copy should travel with the documents. The transporter is not liable for goods damage unless specifically covered in the contract.
5. Permits and Route Authorization
For oversize or overweight cargo (heavy machinery, industrial equipment), special permits from the relevant transport authority are required. Your transporter should arrange these as part of the booking.
6. Vehicle Fitness Certificate and RC
The transporting vehicle must carry a valid fitness certificate and registration. While this is the transporter's responsibility, it is good practice to verify — a vehicle without proper documentation can be seized at checkpoints.
How GOOD LUCK TRANSPORT handles documentation
As your transport contractor or commission agent, we coordinate the lorry receipt, e-way bill reference, and required permits as part of the booking. You provide the GST invoice and cargo details — we handle the rest.