📦 Import & Export (India) — Overview (संक्षेप)

Import/Export business शुरू करने के लिए मुख्य रूप से यह जरूरी है कि आप सही registrations और compliances कर लें: IEC (Import Export Code), कभी-कभी RCMC, GST registration, तथा specific licences (if restricted items). बड़े पैमाने पर काम करने के लिए DGFT/DGFT-related permissions और Customs clearance की समझ भी आवश्यक है।

✅ Key Registrations & Licenses

1. IEC (Import Export Code) — mandatory for all import/export (DGFT).

2. RCMC (Registration Cum Membership Certificate) — for importing/exporting under various councils (APEDA, FIEO etc.) — required for incentives.

3. DGFT Licences / IEC-linked permissions — for certain restricted items or export incentives.

4. Import licences (if item is restricted) — e.g., pharma, chemicals, defence items.

5. GST Registration — if turnover crosses threshold or for interstate supplies.

6. DGSH (EPC/Govt portals) — for shipping bills, export declarations.

7. FSSAI / Drug Licence / BIS / Pollution Clearances — sector-specific.

📂 Common Documents Required

For IEC (individual/company):

• PAN of applicant (PAN mandatory)

• Aadhaar / Passport (for individual)

• Cancelled cheque / Bank account proof

• Business address proof (electricity bill / lease)

• DSC (for online filings sometimes recommended)

For exports / customs:

• Commercial invoice

• Packing list

• Bill of Lading / Airway Bill

• Insurance certificate (if applicable)

• Certificate of Origin (if buyer asks / for preferential rates)

• RCMC / Export Promotion Council docs (if claiming incentives)

🔁 Typical Process (High-level)

1. Decide product HS code & check import/export restrictions.

2. Obtain IEC from DGFT (online).

3. If required, get industry-specific licences (FSSAI, Drug, BIS).

4. Get RCMC (if you want incentives/benefits).

5. Arrange orders, prepare export documents (invoice, packing list).

6. File Shipping Bill / Bill of Export on ICEGATE/EDI.

7. Customs clearance, get export promotion benefits (if applicable).

8. For import, file Bill of Entry, pay customs duty, clear goods.

🎯 Benefits

• Access to global markets & higher revenue potential.

• Export incentives (MEIS/SEIS replacement schemes — check DGFT updates).

• Foreign exchange earnings & diversification.

• Formal business growth, bank/ecosystem credibility.

💰 Approximate Costs (Indicative)

Note: Import duties, IGST, cess, and other taxes depend on commodity HS code & valuation — these are not included above. Costs vary by state, cargo mode (air/sea), and shipment complexity.

⏳ Timeline (Typical)

• IEC: Immediate to 1–2 days (online)

• RCMC: 7–14 days (varies)

• FSSAI / Sector licences: 7–30 days (depending on authority)

• Customs clearance: Same day to a few days per shipment (depending on checks)