First Export Checklist
IEC, GST and LUT, AD code, payments and shipping, in the right order.
Get these done before your first order ships
Do these in order. Most take a few working days each, and some depend on the one before. Start them before you list your products abroad, not after the first order comes in.
This checklist follows the compliance layers in the Seven Pillars playbook: first your permission to export from India, then getting paid and shipping, then the rules for your product and the buyer's country.
Layer 1. Permission to export from India
1. IEC (Importer Exporter Code)
- What it is: your 10-digit exporter identity with DGFT. It goes on your export documents and is needed for customs.
- Where: dgft.gov.in (online only)
- Government fee: ₹500, paid online¹
- Time: usually 1 to 3 working days¹
- Documents: PAN, address proof, bank proof, identity proof
- Keep it active: update your IEC every year between 1 April and 30 June, even if nothing has changed. The update is free. If you miss it, the IEC is deactivated, and shipments or payments can be held until you reactivate it.¹
2. GST registration
- What it is: your GSTIN. You need it to file an LUT (next step) and to claim export benefits, and marketplaces ask for it.
- Where: gst.gov.in
- Government fee: none
- Confirm with your CA which registration type suits you.