E-way bills and HSN codes, explained for small shops
Two questions come up constantly once a shop starts moving real volume: do I need an e-way bill for this delivery, and which HSN code goes on this invoice? Here's the plain-language version.
This is general information, not tax advice. Thresholds and state-specific rules change — confirm on the official e-way bill portal or with your accountant.
Generally required when goods worth more than ₹50,000 move by vehicle — whether that's a sale, a stock transfer between your own branches, or goods sent out for job work. Many counter sales handed over in person don't need one, but larger deliveries usually do. Some states set their own limits for movement within the state, so check your state's specific rule.
What an HSN code actually is
HSN (Harmonised System of Nomenclature) codes classify the type of goods you sell, for GST purposes. The digit requirement on your invoices generally depends on your turnover — a shorter code for smaller businesses, a longer one above a turnover threshold. Requirements have shifted over time, so confirm the current rule that applies to you.
Getting the HSN code right matters
Using the wrong HSN code can mean charging the wrong GST rate, which shows up as a mismatch later. It's worth getting your product catalogue's HSN codes right once, rather than fixing invoices after the fact.
Where StockMitra fits in
StockMitra creates GST-ready bills with PDF invoices and keeps your product and stock records organised, so the details you need for an e-way bill or a correct HSN entry are already on hand. It doesn't generate e-way bills itself — those are created on the official e-way bill portal.
An e-way bill is generally required when goods worth more than ₹50,000 are moved by a vehicle, whether that's a sale, a stock transfer, or goods sent for job work. Many local retail sales handed over at the counter don't need one, but larger deliveries and inter-state stock movement usually do — check current rules for your state, since some states set their own limits for intra-state movement.
What is an HSN code and do I need it on my bills?
HSN (Harmonised System of Nomenclature) codes classify the goods you sell for GST purposes. Businesses generally need to show a 4-digit HSN code on invoices if turnover is up to ₹5 crore, and a 6-digit code above that threshold — though exact requirements have changed over time, so confirm the current rule for your turnover band.
Does StockMitra generate e-way bills?
StockMitra creates GST-ready bills with PDF invoices and keeps your product and stock records organised. It is not an e-way bill generation tool — e-way bills are generated on the official e-way bill portal, using details from your invoice.