Starting to import or export in India: your questions, answered
The first steps, in the right order.
- Get your IEC first.
- Check your product rules before you order or sell.
- Work out the full cost and the payment terms.
- Insure the cargo and use a Customs Broker.
Where do I begin?
With the Importer Exporter Code (IEC).
What next?
| Step | What to do |
|---|---|
| 1 | Get the IEC |
| 2 | Check your product rules |
| 3 | Find the buyer or supplier and verify them |
| 4 | Agree price and payment terms |
| 5 | Insure the cargo |
| 6 | Ship and clear Customs |
Did you know? Why India marks 5 April
Q. What happened on 5 April 1919? The SS Loyalty, owned by the Scindia Steam Navigation Company, sailed from Bombay to London. It is remembered as the first voyage of an Indian-owned merchant ship into international shipping.
Q. What is the link today? India celebrates 5 April as National Maritime Day, and Merchant Navy Week has been marked since 1964.
Illustration, not a photograph.How much will it cost?
Work out the landed cost, not only the price.
Where do I find the stages?
Top questions from small businesses
Did you know? The first Boeing 747
Q. When did the 747 first fly? On 9 February 1969, from Everett in the United States.
Q. What did it change for cargo? Freighter versions with a hinged nose carry large, heavy and urgent goods. Every such consignment is still cleared by a Bill of Entry or a Shipping Bill.
Illustration, not a photograph.Can I check my readiness?
Yes, with the free Shipment Readiness Check.
Not sure how this applies to your shipment? Send us the product and the route. A call or a message is all it takes, and we are with you at every step of the way, whether you are importing or exporting.
Multimodal Logistic Systems Pvt. Ltd., Pune, India. Written by Shankar Jha. We are consultants, not a law firm. This page is general information.