When goods arrive in a country by air, customs authorities need a complete record of what’s being imported, who’s involved and how the cargo will be handled. This is where the Air IGM comes into play. It acts as an official declaration submitted by the airline or its agent before the cargo reaches the destination airport.
This guide breaks down the meaning of the Air IGM (Import General Manifest), the filing process, the digital submission system and its broader role in cargo documentation.
What is Air IGM (Import General Manifest)?
The Air Import General Manifest (Air IGM) is a document listing all goods arriving on a specific flight. Filed with customs by airlines or cargo agents before landing, it contains shipment details such as consigner, consignee, airway bill numbers, packages and cargo descriptions. It helps authorities track imports and ensure regulatory compliance.
Importance of Air IGM in international trade
An Air IGM serves as the primary source of information for customs officials. It ensures:
- Accurate cargo identification, avoiding misdeclared or restricted goods.
- Smooth customs clearance, as officers rely on the manifest to match paperwork with physical cargo.
- Better tracking and transparency, as importers can use Air IGM tracking tools to monitor shipment status.
- Regulatory compliance, helping airlines and cargo handlers meet legal obligations.
Filing process of Air IGM
Filing the Air IGM is mandatory and time-sensitive. The process typically includes:
- Collecting shipment data: Airlines gather information from master and house airway bills, including package count, weight and commodity descriptions.
- Preparing the manifest: Details from all consignments on the flight are consolidated into a single manifest.
- Submitting to customs: The manifest is filed electronically before the aircraft lands.
- Corrections and amendments: If errors are found, airlines must request amendments promptly to avoid penalties or clearance delays.
Key details mentioned in an Air IGM
An Air IGM contains key shipment details such as the flight number and date, master and house airway bill numbers, consignor and consignee information, number of packages, total weight, cargo description, origin and destination airports, and handling agent details. This enables customs officials to assess risk, calculate duties accurately and verify cargo against declared information.
Digital filing of Air IGM through ICEGATE
In India, the ICEGATE portal enables airlines, agents and freight forwarders to submit Air IGM electronically. This online system:
- Minimises paperwork
- Reduces manual errors
- Enables quicker validations
- Supports real-time status tracking
Role of Air IGM in cargo insurance
When importers purchase insurance policy, such as air cargo or marine insurance, insurers rely on the IGM to confirm the shipment’s details, journey and ownership. In cases of damage, theft or loss, the IGM helps validate the cargo and speeds up the claims process. As it serves as the first official record of goods entering the country, it is often referenced during investigations and settlements.
Air IGM information also helps determine liability. Discrepancies in quantities or descriptions on arrival may be the responsibility of the airline or ground-handling agents, while damage identified later may shift liability to warehouse operators, transporters or other parties involved in cargo handling.
Challenges in Air IGM Filing
Preparing or filing an Air IGM presents several challenges. Data inconsistencies, last-minute amendments, technical issues with digital portals and strict submission timelines can cause delays, penalties or cargo holds. Accurate data entry and timely filing are essential to avoid these problems.
Conclusion
Air IGM is a crucial document in international air cargo movement. It ensures customs authorities have accurate information, supports tracking and plays a significant role in insurance claims and compliance. Whether you’re an importer, freight forwarder or airline representative, understanding how the Air IGM works helps you avoid delays and keep the cargo moving smoothly.
FAQs
1. Who is responsible for filing the Air IGM?
Typically, the airline or its authorised cargo agent files it.
2. Can I track my shipment through the IGM?
Yes. Many customs systems allow importers to check status updates through manifest numbers.
3. What happens if the Air IGM is not filed?
Customs clearance is delayed, penalties may be imposed and cargo might be held back.
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