Customs query reply
A Customs query on your shipment? We draft the reply.
We read the query, check the Customs Act, Tariff and notifications in force on that date, and write a reply for you to submit.
Monday to Saturday, 10 AM to 7 PM IST (closed Sundays and public holidays). You do not need to send documents first: tell us in two lines what is happening and we reply with the list we need.
Documents to have ready
- Commercial invoice
- Packing list
- Bill of Lading or Air Waybill
- Catalogue, brochure or technical write-up of the imported goods, and their end-use
- The Customs query letter or notice, if you have received one
- Importer-Exporter Code (IEC) and Bill of Entry number, if filed
Start without sending sensitive documents
Send two lines first on WhatsApp or email: what is the goods, which port, and what Customs has asked. We tell you which documents are needed and what we will charge. Documents are used only for your matter and are shared only with the agencies and parties your matter needs, such as Customs. If you prefer not to email a file, say so and we agree a method with you before you send it.
What you can expect
| What | How long | Clock starts when |
|---|---|---|
| Reply to your enquiry | within 1 working day | We receive your message in business hours |
| Fee and scope in writing | within 1 working day of receiving your documents | We hold the documents on the list |
| Completed draft reply | within 48 hours | You have accepted the fee and all documents are with us |
Business hours: Monday to Saturday, 10 AM to 7 PM IST (closed Sundays and public holidays). The 48 hours start when you have accepted the fee and we hold every document on the list. Sundays and public holidays are not counted. Complex matters may need more time; we say so before you accept the fee.
What you receive
- A reply letter ready to submit, in your company's name
- The provisions and notifications relied on, with dates
- A short note on what Customs may ask next
Sample format (illustration only)
Query: Please explain the classification claimed for the imported goods.
Our reply is structured as: 1. Facts of import. 2. Description and end-use. 3. Tariff heading claimed and reasons. 4. Notifications relied on. 5. Request.
This shows the layout of a reply, not a real case. Real replies are confidential.
Fee
You see the fee in writing before work starts. Indian customers are invoiced the rupee amount plus 18% GST.
Led by Shankar Jha, Customs and EXIM consultant with 27+ years of experience. About us
Questions
How fast will you reply?
We reply to enquiries within 1 working day and give the fee within 1 working day of receiving your documents. The completed draft follows within 48 hours from acceptance. The 48 hours start when you have accepted the fee and we hold every document on the list. Sundays and public holidays are not counted.
Do you give legal advice?
We are consultants, not a law firm. We draft Customs replies and explain procedure based on the Customs Act, the Tariff and notifications in force on the date of your query. For court or tribunal matters you need an advocate.
What do I pay and when?
The fee is shown to you in writing before work starts. For Indian customers the invoice shows the rupee amount and 18% GST.
Can you guarantee Customs will accept the reply?
No one can. We prepare the strongest reply the rules support. The decision rests with Customs.
Multimodal Logistic Systems Pvt. Ltd., Pune, India. Page reviewed November 2026. Rules and notifications change; we check those in force on the date of your query.