Export > Documentation and licenses

Export Documentation: An export compliance guide

With the right information, exporting products can be an simple and hassle-freeeasy process. Here is a detailed guide to get started with your export compliance and documentation.

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Exporting goods from India requires more than just finding a buyer—it demands careful adherence to a range of legal and regulatory requirements. Every Indian exporter is required to obtain and submit a list of documents to ensure their business meets required regulations for hassle-free exports. Whether it is registration, shipping or tax, different licenses are required depending on the product category being exported, destination country and origin country – India.

What is export documentation?

To navigate international trade, Indian exporters must secure necessary licenses and certificates that authorize them to operate in global markets. Each destination country has its own set of compliance regulations, making accurate and complete documentation essential for smooth customs clearance and timely payments. Failure to meet these documentation requirements can also lead to costly delays, legal complications, and financial penalties for exporters.

Key documents required for export

Importer Exporter Code

IEC, which stands for Importer Exporter Code, is a 10-digit business identification number allotted to an importer or exporter by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). It is issued based on the Permanent Account Number (PAN) of a business.

Authorized Dealer Code

An Authorized Dealer (AD) Code is a 14-digit code, which is given by the bank where the exporter maintains a business current account. This code, printed with the bank letterhead, can be obtained after the exporter has registered for an IEC with the DGFT.

Letter of Undertaking

GST Letter of Undertaking (LUT) is a document filed to export products without paying IGST (Integrated Goods and Services Tax). Exporters can generate an LUT on the GST portal and avail the benefits of zero-rated turnover.

Importer of Record

An Importer of Record (IOR) is an individual or entity responsible for all documentation related to the import of goods into a country. An IOR is responsible for ensuring inspection and valuation of goods, and filing duties, taxes and other relevant documents.

Amazon Export Compliance Dashboard: Simplifying export documentation

In addition to the above-mentioned documents, exporters also need specific licenses and certificates depending on their product category, shipping method, and tax regulations. For example, to export spices from India to the US, businesses are required to obtain FDA food labelling compliance documents. To simplify the process of obtaining export documents, Amazon provides exporters with guidance on key compliance requirements and regulations through the Export Compliance Dashboard.

What is the Export Compliance Dashboard?

Export Compliance Dashboard is a one-stop dashboard that provides Indian exporters with guidance on compliance across five key areas — export registration, product documentation, shipping documentation, tax documentation, and payment reconciliation. Exporters can use the dashboard to understand regulatory requirements for their business and get end-to-end support from third-party service providers to obtain the necessary documents. The Export Compliance Dashboard is available to all Indian exporters, including those not registered on Amazon.

Already have your documents?

Need assistance on export compliance?

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Guide to obtain your export documents in 3 easy steps

Step 1

Get required information

Find out the list of key regulations and documents applicable for your export business.

Step 2

Receive end-to-end support

Directly connect with third-party service providers to get guidance on how to obtain the required export documents for your products.

Step 3

Receive export documents

Receive your export documents and start selling your products internationally from India with ease.

Already have your documents?

Need assistance on export compliance?

Get your export documents

Frequently Asked Questions

What documents do I need to export from India?

Some of the most important documents needed are Letter of Undertaking, Authorized Dealer Code, and Importer-Exporter Code, besides invoices, bill of lading, packing list, etc.

To understand export regulations and documents for your business, click here

What export products can I sell on Amazon international marketplaces?

You can sell a range of products on Amazon’s 18 international marketplaces, including games and toys, kitchen supplies, pet supplies, books, clothing, jewellery, and more.

Which documents are commonly used in international shipping?

Besides AD code and IEC code which are both very critical, other documents required are invoice, packing list, and shipping bill/bill of lading.

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Which product categories require extra documents and certificates to export?

Several product categories, such as groceries, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, etc. require additional export documents. For example, products from a strict list called “SCOMET” (Special Chemicals, Organisms, Materials, Equipment and Technologies) need licenses from the government and the application process requires several documents from multiple agencies.

What happens if I do not have all the export documents?

Without the correct compliance documentation, your consignment could be held up by authorities, leading to delays in shipment and payment. You may also incur heavy penalties and be served legal notices if your goods do not meet compliance criteria.

Amazon Exports Digest 2024

Exports Digest 2024 explores the transformative role of technology in shaping e-commerce exports. It showcases the latest data on top Indian states in terms of exports, bestselling Indian products, and top and emerging marketplaces.

Read Amazon Exports Digest 2024 here