Certificate of Origin (COO) Preparation Checklist

The checklist reflects DGFT and trade-agreement origin rules. Confirm the specific origin criteria with the issuing authority.

Work through every requirement for a preferential or non-preferential Certificate of Origin application — origin rules, documents, issuance and post-clearance steps. Progress is saved automatically in your browser. Free for Indian exporters.

Checklist

Tick items as you complete them. Your progress is saved locally.

1. Applicant & Exporter Details
2. Goods & Origin Rules
3. Supporting Documents
4. Application & Issuance
5. Post-Issuance

COO Issuance Support

Need help with origin-rule determination or COO filing at DGFT / port / chamber? Submit your details for expert assistance.

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Preferential vs Non-Preferential Certificate of Origin

A non-preferential COO certifies the country of origin for general trade documentation, bank requirements or anti-dumping purposes. A preferential COO (under SAFTA, APTA, India-UAE CEPA, RCEP and other FTAs) certifies origin for claiming reduced or zero import duty at the destination country — and requires you to prove origin under the agreement's rules (value addition or change of tariff heading).

For preferential certificates, the origin criterion and value-addition threshold are the most common rejection points. Use this checklist before every application to ensure your origin declaration, supporting cost statements and HS codes are complete and consistent with the invoice and shipping bill. Our Certificate of Origin services can handle the full filing at DGFT, port or chamber.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who issues Certificates of Origin in India?
Non-preferential COOs are typically issued by DGFT or approved chambers of commerce; preferential COOs are issued by DGFT / approved agencies under the relevant FTA. The checklist covers the requirements common to both.
What is the value addition needed for preferential origin?
Thresholds differ by agreement — e.g. SAFTA requires about 30% value addition, APTA 35%, India-UAE CEPA and RCEP 40% RVC (or 35% plus change in tariff heading in some cases). Verify the applicable rule for your destination.
How long should I keep COO records?
Keep origin-related records (invoices, cost statements, raw material purchases, shipping bills) for at least 3 years, as destination customs may request verification documents after clearance.
What is the Certificate of Origin checklist for?
It guides exporters through origin rules, supporting documents and issuance steps for both preferential and non-preferential Certificates of Origin, and produces a print-ready summary.
Are the checklist rules official?
The checklist is based on publicly available DGFT and trade-pact origin requirements. Always confirm the specific origin criteria with the issuing authority or your CHA before applying.
Is the Certificate of Origin Checklist free to use?
Yes. The Certificate of Origin Checklist is 100% free for personal and commercial use — no registration, login or payment required.

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