Sellers selling goods outside the state/country they operate is called the export of goods, purchasing goods from other countries is called import of goods. When you decide to sell the goods and services of your firm in international markets, the first step you need is to obtain Import Export code.
It is Mandatory for Business operators dealing in International trade of goods require obtaining an Import Export Code (IEC) to operate.
In the process of import and export of goods, IEC is used for clearing goods from custom authority or service provider. IEC is a 10 digit unique number that is issued by Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), Government of India. It does not matter how small or big your business firm is, no seller can import and export goods without IEC.
It has become much easier to obtain Import Export Code, as now we can get it online. New entrepreneurs now can get IEC without visiting the authorized office. They can upload the documents and can pay online.
First of all, you need to ensure if you are eligible for getting an import export code. To be eligible, you should have the following documents. Make sure you have them all before you apply for import export code.
An IEC application form is submitted to regional joint DGFT office with the above documents attached.