ICETAB 2.0 a handheld device for customs operations launched on 23.08.2024

ICETAB 2.0 a handheld device for customs operations launched on 23.08.2024. It will help in uploading real-time examination reports and in quicker clearance of cargoes.

In view of the objective of trade facilitation, transparency and efficiency in Customs processes, CBIC has decided use of ICETAB for speedy examination of import consignments.

The ICETAB is a mobile tablet device for use by Customs Officers for facilitating quick upload of the examination report on the go in real time basis and making the examination process transparent and faster. ICETAB contains an exclusive Mobile Application to enable examining officers to,-

(a) view  RMS  Instructions,  Examination  Order  and  Bill  of  Entry  (BE)  details  along  with other supporting documents;

(b) capture upto four images of cargo examination for integration with the Bill of Entry

(c) submit  examination  report  immediately  on  completion  of  the  cargo examination thus reducing  the  time  taken  in  examination  process  and  making  the  process  seamless  and paperless.

Customs cargo clearance is based on Risk Management System on the basis of risk associated, few consignments are intervened for assessment and examination. After assessment procedure is complete, the assessed copy of Bill of Entry is electronically made available to importer/ Customs Broker for duty payment and prepare the cargo ready for examination by Customs officer. In absence of holistic mobility coverage, Examining officers were relying on printed copy of assessed BE for examination as it contains Examination Order and other instructions. With new version of ICETAB from 23.08.2024, the examination order will be seamlessly available to Examining officer on ICETAB. Accordingly, there will be no requirement for any paper documents for the purpose of carrying out examination.

Examining officer, on the basis of instructions already made available through ICETAB, will have to take and upload four images of the cargo being examined. The images should cover key aspects of examination. These images will also be integrated in e-Sanchit repository for subsequent viewing. The examining officers should also upload the examination report immediately using the ICETAB.

In cases of exigencies where the report cannot be given using ICETAB, prior permission of concerned Assistant Commissioner is required and same may be recorded in the examination report as well.  The Pr. Commissioner of Customs/ Commissioner of Customs having jurisdiction over the import shed, on weekly basis, review the use of ICETABs and resolve any technical difficulty immediately in consultation with DG Systems. The Commissioner of Customs shall ensure network connectivity for efficient functioning of ICETABs

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