E-Way Bill: When You Need One and How to Generate It

An e-way bill is an electronic document you generate before moving goods above a certain value. It links the consignment to your invoice and lets the tax authorities track movement. Move goods without one when it's required, and both the goods and the vehicle can be detained — so it's worth understanding the basics.

When do you need an e-way bill?

The general rule: an e-way bill is required for the movement of goods whose consignment value exceeds ₹50,000, whether the movement is for a sale, a transfer, or even a return. This covers movement both between states and, in most cases, within a state (some states set their own intra-state thresholds, so check locally).

Common triggers include:

• Supplying goods to a customer above the threshold.
• Branch or stock transfers between your own locations.
• Sending goods to a job worker, or receiving them back.
• Sales returns and replacements.

When you don't need one

• Consignments at or below ₹50,000 (subject to state rules).
• Certain exempt goods, and specified non-motorised transport.
• Some short-distance movements and notified categories — the list of exemptions is specific, so verify for your case.

How to generate an e-way bill

1. Log in to the official e-way bill portal (or use software / GSP integration).
2. Choose “Generate New” and enter Part A: GSTINs, the invoice number and date, HSN codes, taxable value and place of supply.
3. Enter Part B: the transporter ID or the vehicle number for the movement.
4. Submit to receive a unique e-way bill number (EBN), which travels with the consignment.

Because Part A mirrors your invoice, clean invoice data saves you re-keying. If you already raised the invoice in the invoice generator, you have most of Part A ready to go.

How long is it valid?

Validity is distance-based — broadly one day per a set block of kilometres, with more time for longer hauls and special rules for over-dimensional cargo. If goods can't be delivered in time (a breakdown, say), the bill can be updated or extended within the allowed window.

Tips to stay out of trouble

• Generate the e-way bill before the movement starts.
• Keep the invoice and e-way bill numbers consistent.
• Update Part B if the vehicle changes mid-transit.
• Cancel within the allowed window if a shipment falls through.

E-way bill support is part of Billzora's Pro plan, and it draws on the same invoice data you already enter. For the invoice side of the equation, see how to create a GST-compliant invoice. Rules and thresholds change, so confirm the current position on the official portal before you ship.