CBEC introduces online generation of rotation numbers for shipping lines/agents

The Dollar Business Bureau

The Customs and Excise Department has made easy for shipping lines or agents by introducing the online generation of rotation numbers for vessels. Until now the process followed was a cumbersome one for both the Shipping Line(SL) or the Shipping Agent(SA).

According to the process, the allotment of 'Rotation Number' for a vessel that calls on a port, the concerned Shipping Line or Shipping Agent (SL/SA) must file an application with the designated section in the Custom House, along with the desired particulars in the prescribed format. After confirmation of the particulars, the designated official who is assigned the appropriate role on the Indian Customs EDI System (ICES), enters the relevant data in this system. Upon submission of this data, the 'Rotation Number' is generated by the System (ICES) and print-outs showing the vessel particulars and the 'Rotation Number' are generated for the (SL/SA).

Keeping with the changing times the Customs has simplified the generation of rotation numbers for vessels, online. Under the proposed facility, the Shipping Lines/Agents registered with ICEGATE using their digital signature would have an option "Rotation Number Generation" on the ICEGATE user menu.

The declarant needs to provide the following details in the webform.

i. Customs Location Code (LOCODE)

ii. IMO Code of the vessel

iii. Voyage Number

iv. Master's Name

v. Shipping Line Code

vi. Shipping Agent Code

vii. Next Port of Call

viii. Expected Date of Arrival of vessel

On submission of the above details and authentication by the user using a one-time password (OTP), the Rotation Number would be generated by the system. The user also has the option to check the status of Rotation in the system under secure login. For casual visitors (members of the trade), a 'Rotation Number Inquiry' option would be made available on the ICEGATE website.

The Principal Commissioner or Commissioner of Customs of every port may issue a suitable public notice informing the Trade and other stakeholders regarding this facility. Any difficulties in the implementation may be brought to the notice of the Customs Board.