An Electronic Way Bill (E-way Bill) is a document required for the movement of goods in India, both inter-state and intra-state, if the value of the consignment exceeds a specified threshold. The E-way Bill system is part of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime and is aimed at ensuring seamless transportation of goods and preventing tax evasion. Here are key details about the E-way Bill:
1. Applicability:
- Inter-State Movement: E-way Bill is mandatory for the movement of goods across state borders where the consignment value exceeds the prescribed threshold.
- Intra-State Movement: The requirement for E-way Bill for intra-state movement varies from state to state. Some states have made it mandatory for intra-state movement as well.
2. Threshold Limit:
- The threshold limit for E-way Bill generation is the total value of the goods being transported, including both taxable and exempt supplies. The threshold limit may vary across states.
3. Generation of E-way Bill:
- The E-way Bill is generated electronically on the official E-way Bill portal (https://ewaybillgst.gov.in/) or through SMS.
- The person responsible for the transportation of goods (supplier, recipient, or transporter) can generate the E-way Bill.
4. Information Required for E-way Bill:
- Goods and Services Tax Identification Number (GSTIN):
- GSTIN of the supplier, recipient, and transporter.
- Document Number:
- Invoice or document number related to the consignment.
- Vehicle Number:
- Registration number of the vehicle transporting the goods.
- Product Description:
- Details of the goods being transported.
- HSN Code:
- Harmonized System of Nomenclature (HSN) code for the goods.
- Quantity and Value:
- Quantity and value of the goods being transported.
- Place of Delivery:
- Destination of the goods.
5. Modes of E-way Bill Generation:
- Online Portal:
- E-way Bill can be generated on the official E-way Bill portal by registered taxpayers.
- SMS:
- E-way Bill can also be generated through SMS by sending specific details to the designated number.
- API Integration:
- Businesses can integrate their systems with the E-way Bill portal for seamless generation.
6. Validity of E-way Bill:
- The validity period of an E-way Bill depends on the distance to be traveled by the goods:
- For a distance up to 100 km: 1 day
- For every additional 100 km or part thereof: Additional 1 day
- The validity period is calculated from the time of generation.
7. Cancellation and Extension:
- E-way Bill can be canceled within 24 hours of its generation. After 24 hours, cancellation is not allowed.
- In certain circumstances, the E-way Bill can be extended before the expiry of its validity.
8. Transporter Responsibilities:
- The transporter is required to carry a copy of the E-way Bill during the transportation of goods.
- The transporter can also update the vehicle details in case of a change.
9. Interception and Verification:
- Tax authorities can intercept and verify the goods in transit along with the E-way Bill.
- The E-way Bill system facilitates real-time tracking of goods.
10. Penalties for Non-Compliance:
- Failure to generate or carry the E-way Bill can result in penalties and seizure of goods.
- The amount of penalty may vary based on the nature and extent of the violation.
Important Points to Note:
- E-way Bill rules and requirements may be subject to updates, and businesses should stay informed about any changes.
- It is advisable to use the official E-way Bill portal or authorized modes for E-way Bill generation to ensure compliance with the prescribed format and procedures.
