Selling globally from India: prepare the export transaction

Start with one clearly described transaction

Identify what is being sold, who the buyer is and where the product or service will be delivered. For goods, record material, quantity, specifications and proposed use. For services, keep the actual scope and recipient details.

Do not advertise that any certificate lets anyone export every product. Restricted goods, destination requirements and the transaction model can require separate permissions or checks. Confirm the conditions before manufacturing, accepting an advance or quoting an unconditional dispatch date.

Review the applicable trade and product requirements

DGFT's Foreign Trade Policy describes the normal IEC requirement for goods, subject to exemptions. Services and technology need their own review, including whether a policy benefit is sought. An Udyam certificate is not a replacement for a required IEC or product permission.

Check the product's classification, export policy, relevant certification and destination requirements. An RCMC or other registration should be assessed for the actual policy or scheme; do not assume every low-value shipment needs the same document set. Use current official instructions.

Understand pricing and delivery responsibilities

Prepare a price working that includes product cost, packing, logistics, documentation and relevant charges. Agree who bears transport, insurance, customs handling and destination costs. A low product price can become an unworkable order if the delivery responsibilities are unclear.

Confirm packaging, labelling and quality requirements in the buyer's written order. If a sample or inspection is required, document acceptance. Keep a change process so that altered quantities or specifications do not silently change the agreed commercial terms.

Plan payment and tax treatment before dispatch

Review the buyer's identity and the agreed payment method. Discuss banking and foreign-exchange documentation with the relevant bank or adviser. Maintain a connection between the order, invoice, shipment or service evidence and the receipt.

GST export treatment has specific conditions and should be checked for the transaction. A foreign address or currency alone is not enough. Confirm any relevant LUT or refund route before using it, and keep the required record rather than copying another exporter's invoice.

Track fulfilment and handle problems with evidence

For goods, retain the applicable commercial, packing, customs and shipping records. For services, keep delivery and acceptance evidence. Reconcile the payment and any deductions with the invoice. Records should make it possible to explain the transaction after the order is complete.

Plan returns, damage, delayed payment and customer communication before launch. Start with a manageable pilot order and review the actual economics and process. LIQUETAX guidance can help organise compliance questions; buyer demand, export permission and commercial success still depend on the real facts.

First export-order preparation file

Frequently asked questions