With the digital-first era, e-commerce export offers a robust platform for Indian sellers to reach millions of international buyers without the need to establish a physical store overseas. Using platforms like Amazon Global Selling, small and medium businesses (SMBs) can go global, boost sales, and diversify sources of income with minimal initial outlay.
This article gives the step-by-step procedure to begin with e-commerce export from India and talks about the key benefits, like how to register for Import Export Code (IEC) and complete your AD Code Registration.
What is E-Commerce Export?
E-commerce export is the selling of goods directly to international buyers through websites such as Amazon, eBay, Etsy, or your own website. Compared to traditional exports, which are often in bulk orders and come through third-party intermediaries, e-commerce exports are direct-to-customer (D2C), and sellers have greater freedom and say.
Why Use E-Commerce Export?
Amazon Global Selling reports that there are several advantages of e-commerce exports:
- Low entry barriers: No need for international distributors or warehouses.
- Better access to markets: Reach more than 200 countries and territories’ customers.
- Simpler payments: Rapid online payment and settlement.
- Flexibility in logistics: Self-ship or Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) opportunities.
- Brand development: Engage with overseas buyers directly and establish your brand globally.
Step-by-Step Process to Start E-Commerce Export from India
Here is a step-by-step guide for Indian entrepreneurs or firms to start their e-commerce exporting venture:
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Choose Your Product
Begin with searching high-demand products internationally. Examine odd Indian items such as handicrafts, clothing, Ayurvedic, organic foodstuffs, or jewellery. Undertake a market survey of trends, competitors, and price.
Tip: Use Amazon Marketplace Product Research tool or Google Trends to test demand.
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Set up a Business Entity
In order to sell overseas, you will have to have a legal business entity in India. It can be a proprietorship, partnership, LLP, or private limited company. You will need a current account in the business name for your financial transactions.
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Get an Import Export Code (IEC)
Import Export Code (IEC) is necessary for any businessman or company that wants to export from India. The Director General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) gives it.
Process to apply:
- Visit the DGFT website
- Provide your business PAN, address proof, and bank information
- Pay the modest application charge (₹500 currently)
- Receive your IEC within 1–2 working days
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AD Code Registration
You require an AD Code (Authorized Dealer Code) for getting shipments cleared from Indian customs. It is a 14-digit code from your bank that must be registered with the customs department.
Steps for AD Code Registration:
- Ask your bank (where your current account is) for the AD Code
- Send the AD Code to the respective port’s customs office via the ICEGATE portal
- Once registered, your shipping bills can be cleared for export
Why it’s crucial: Without an AD Code, your products cannot be exported legally, and payments cannot be remitted to your Indian account.
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Select Your E-Commerce Platform
Then, select the e-commerce platform(s) on which you will be selling your products. Some of the top platforms are:
- Amazon Global Selling – Ideal for global reach and hassle-free logistics
- eBay and Etsy – Ideal for niche and handmade products
- Shopify or WooCommerce – To build your own website
Tip: Amazon Global Selling allows you to start with minimal infrastructure and offers access to sophisticated logistics assistance like FBA.
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Product Listing & Compliance
Create high-quality listings with international SEO, product descriptions, images, and prices in local currencies. Your products should comply with international regulations, safety standards, and labeling requirements of the destination country.
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Logistics and Shipping
You have the option to use either of the two shipping options:
- Self-Shipping: You handle storage, packing, and international courier services.
- Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA): You ship your inventory to Amazon’s overseas warehouses, and they handle the rest of the packing, shipping, customer service, and returns.
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Payment and Currency Exchange
The majority of platforms have inbuilt international payment gateways. Payments are typically settled in INR after exchange of currency. Make sure you are well aware of exchange rates, transaction charges, and timelines.
Use secure payment services or payment service providers (e.g., Payoneer or Amazon’s in-house payment service) to receive quicker settlements.
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Export Documentation
Draw up documents for customs clearance:
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Shipping Bill (through ICEGATE)
- Bill of Lading or Airway Bill
- Certificate of Origin (if required)
Submit all the documents in proper order so there is no delay at the customs.
Advantage of starting E-Commerce Export Business
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Global Reach, Local Effort
You can access the international markets from your home or warehouse in India. With Amazon or Shopify, your shop is now accessible instantly to US, UK, Europe, and other customers.
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Reduced Setup Costs
No physical setup of operations in the target country is needed. No distribution and marketing costs are involved since there are no middlemen.
Direct access to global consumers enables brand building and obtaining instant feedback. A healthy brand can offer better margins and loyalty.
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Currency Advantage
Returns in stronger currencies such as USD or EUR have the potential to significantly boost your margins because of beneficial exchange rates.
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Diversification of Risk
Relying only on the local market is risky when economies are contracting. Global selling enables diversifying revenue streams and mitigating risks of markets.
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Digital Tools and Analytics
E-commerce platforms offer real-time dashboards, marketing tools, and analytics to track sales, understand customer behavior, and enhance performance.
Final Thoughts
E-commerce export is a game-changing opportunity for Indian sellers, entrepreneurs, and MSMEs to build global brands, grow sales, and diversify revenues. With options like Import Export Code, AD Code Registration, and access to platforms like Amazon Global Selling, the entry barrier has never been lower.
Provided the aforementioned steps and banking on the surging worldwide demand for Indian products, it is possible for you to globalize your venture right from the beginning where you kicked off in your hometown to the global market.
Ready to go global with your business? Estartup simplifies starting your e-commerce export journey. From Import Export Code (IEC) to AD Code Registration and compliance assistance, we take care of everything. Get professional guidance and go international with ease. Export today with Estartup – your partner in growth!
Moreover, If you want any other guidance relating to registering AD Code or IEC , please feel free to talk to our business advisors at 8881-069-069.
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