GST RCM GTA

GST RCM on transport applies only when a consignment note is issued, which defines the provider as a "GTA." If no consignment note is issued (Situations 1 and 3), the service is exempt from GST entirely. If a note is issued (Situation 2), RCM applies to the recipient regardless of whether their GSTIN was printed on the note, provided the recipient is a registered or notified entity.

In the first situation, where the transporter is registered but does not issue a consignment note, he does not qualify as a Goods Transport Agency (GTA), and therefore reverse charge mechanism (RCM) will not apply. In the second situation, where the transporter issues a consignment note, he becomes a GTA, and RCM will apply to the recipient if the recipient falls under the notified category, even if the receiver’s GST number is not mentioned in the document. In the third situation, where the transporter is unregistered and does not issue a consignment note, he is not a GTA and the service is treated as exempt transportation of goods by road. Accordingly, RCM is applicable only in the second situation.