What is Form-13 in Export?

Form-13 is an essential gate pass document required for export shipments in Indian ports, particularly at Nhava Sheva (JNPT), Mundra, Chennai, and other major container terminals. It is issued by the shipping line or terminal operator and allows a loaded container to enter the port for export.

Purpose of Form-13 in Exports

✅ Authorizes Container Entry: It serves as a container gate-in permission for port terminals.
✅ Confirms Vessel Booking: Ensures that the container has a valid shipping line booking.
✅ Prevents Unauthorized Entry: Only containers with Form-13 approval are allowed to enter.
✅ Enables Seamless Operations: Avoids congestion and mismanagement at terminal gates.

Online Form-13 Issuance Process

Most terminals and shipping lines in India have digital Form-13 issuance through their web portals or port community systems (PCS). Below is the step-by-step online process:

Step 1: Log in to the Shipping Line Portal or PCS

• Visit the shipping line’s website (e.g., Maersk, MSC, CMA CGM) or the Port Community System (PCS 1x)

• Log in with your registered credentials (provided by the shipping line or PCS authority).

Step 2: Enter Shipment & Container Details

• Go to the Form-13 Request Section.

• Enter the following details:
  ✅ Booking Number (from the shipping line)
  ✅ Bill of Lading (BL) Number
  ✅ Container Number(s)
  ✅ Vessel & Voyage Details
  ✅ Port of Loading (POL)
  ✅ Exporter/CHA (Customs House Agent) Details

Step 3: Submit the Request

• Review all entered details and click Submit.

• The system will validate your request against the shipping line’s booking.

Step 4: Approval & Issuance of Form-13

• Once verified, Form-13 is generated electronically.

• You will receive a PDF or digital copy via email or can download it from the portal.

Step 5: Share Form-13 with the Transporter

• The transporter or truck driver carrying the export container must present Form-13 at the port gate.

• Some ports also require e-token confirmation for smoother gate entry.

Common Platforms for Online Form-13 Submission

🔹 PCS 1x (Indian Port Community System) – Used by major Indian ports.
🔹 Shipping Line Portals – Maersk, MSC, CMA CGM, Hapag-Lloyd, ONE, etc.
🔹 Terminal-Specific Websites – GTI (APM Terminals), NSICT, BMCT, Mundra Adani Ports, etc.

Key Points to Remember

✅ Mandatory for Export Containers – No container can enter without Form-13.
✅ Ensure Correct Details – Mistakes may cause rejection at the port gate.
✅ Check Terminal-Specific Rules – Some ports may have different online systems.
✅ Timely Submission – Must be applied for well before the export cut-off time.