How to export to the US through e-commerce: A guide for Indian sellers

Introduction

The United States is one of the largest and most lucrative e-commerce markets in the world. For Indian manufacturers, MSMEs, and direct-to-consumer (D2C) brands, exporting to the US through e-commerce can help unlock international success while sitting right here in India. This guide answers key questions around how to export to the US through e-commerce, and is designed to help Indian sellers start, scale, and succeed in cross-border trade. Whether you’re a first-time exporter or looking to expand your global reach, this article walks you through everything you need to know, step-by-step.

Why should Indian businesses consider exporting to the US?

Exporting to the US offers Indian businesses access to one of the most mature and high-spending online consumer markets. The demand for global products, coupled with the scalability of e-commerce, makes the US a great starting point for international expansion.
Here’s why the opportunity is significant:

• E-commerce sales in the US are expected to reach $1.3 trillion in 2025, making it one of the largest e-commerce markets in the world.¹
• Indian products like textiles, home décor, wellness, and handcrafted goods are gaining popularity among US consumers.

How can Indian sellers reach US customers online?

Indian exporters can reach US customers by:

• Selling through their own website
• Listing on e-commerce marketplaces

Among these, e-commerce marketplaces offer the fastest and most scalable way to access international buyers. E-commerce platforms like Amazon provide:

• Built-in demand and buyer trust
• Logistics and customer service support through programs like Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA)
• Compliance support, demand and forecasting tools, and advertising features
• Hassle-free global expansion opportunities — no need for a US entity, local bank account, or physical presence abroad.

Export from India with Amazon Global Selling

Amazon Global Selling is an e-commerce exports program that is lowering the entry barrier for lakhs of Indian MSMEs and entrepreneurs, helping them build successful global brands. Since 2015, Amazon Global Selling has enabled over 1.5 lakh registered Indian exporters from 200+ cities to sell more than 400 million ‘Made in India’ products worldwide (as at the end of 2024).

Register now to sell internationally across 18+ Amazon marketplaces, such as the US, the UK, the UAE, Canada, France, Germany, and more.

What documents are required to export from India to the US?

Complying with export documentation is essential to avoid customs delays and to receive payments legally. These documents authenticate the origin, value, and classification of your goods. You’ll need these mandatory documents to export from India:

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

• Authorized Dealer Code: An Authorized Dealer (AD) Code is a 14-digit code 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.

Depending on your product category, you may need a few other documents and certificates to export to the US. These may include:

• 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.

• Commercial invoice and packing list: A commercial invoice is a legal document used in international trade that confirms the sale of goods and authorizes payment from the importer to the exporter. A packing list contains all the required details about the contents of a shipment.

• Shipping bill: A shipping bill is an important document that an exporter needs to obtain from the customs department before getting their products ready to ship from India.

• Certificate of Origin: A Certificate of Origin (COO) is an essential exports document that certifies the country where goods are manufactured. This certificate is relevant for customs clearance, determining tariff rates, and ensuring compliance with trade agreements.

• Sector-specific certificates based on product category: i) FDA clearance for food, cosmetics, and wellness products.² ii) CPSC/CPSIA compliance for electronics, baby products, and toys.³

Frequently asked questions

1. What is IOR? Why should I take IOR?

IOR stands for Importer of Record. It is the legal entity responsible for ensuring that the goods being imported comply with local laws and regulations, including payment of duties and taxes. If you do not have a US-based business, using an IOR service provider ensures smooth customs clearance in the US.

2. How do I get an AD Code? My bank does not provide it directly.

You can apply for an AD Code through your bank’s forex branch. If your branch doesn’t issue it directly, they will guide you to their designated AD branch that handles export documentation. Once issued, register the code with Indian Customs via ICEGATE.

What are the best ways to handle international shipping and delivery?

A strong and efficient logistics network is vital for hassle-free e-commerce exports. Order fulfillment and delivery is crucial for your success as an exporter as it directly impacts customer experience. When exporting from India, ensure you plan your inventory and choose a fulfillment method that aligns with your business needs. This will ensure products reach customers on time without an impact on quality. Some common fulfillment methods for e-commerce exports from India are:

• Overseas warehouse deployment: You can store inventory in a third-party warehouse like Amazon’s global fulfillment centers located near their target market (e.g., in the US). This allows faster delivery times and can reduce shipping costs per order. It’s especially useful for high-demand or bulky items.

• Third-party logistics (3PL) providers: Many exporters also work with 3PLs that specialize in cross-border e-commerce. These partners offer end-to-end solutions including storage, order fulfillment, shipping, and even returns management.

• Dropshipping to international customers: While less common for Indian exporters, dropshipping allows sellers to fulfill orders directly from suppliers without maintaining inventory.

As an Amazon global seller, you can choose between two options to ship and fulfill customer orders:

• Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA): With Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA), you can store your products in Amazon global fulfillment centers while Amazon picks, packs, ships your customer orders and provide customer service. FBA is designed to help you focus on your business while Amazon stores your inventory and takes care of shipping and last mile logistics (onward and return).

• Merchant Fulfilled Network (MFN): MFN gives you flexibility and control over the shipping process. With Merchant Fulfilled Network (MFN), you can list your products on Amazon global marketplaces and ship directly to each customer. In this shipping method, you independently pick, pack, store, ship, and deliver products, and handle customer service and returns.

Ship from India to Amazon FCs with Amazon Global Selling SEND

Amazon Global Selling SEND is a cross-border shipping solution that enables you to send your inventory from India to fulfillment centers in the US, UK, and Germany in a cost-effective manner. Once the partnered carrier picks up your shipment, they will handle the end-to-end shipping process, including customs.

Learn more

International shipping best practices

• Choose experienced freight forwarders: They can help you navigate customs and avoid documentation errors.

• Label your products and cartons clearly: This helps avoid delays in inbound shipments.

• Plan inventory cycles smartly: Avoid overstocking or running out of inventory during high-demand periods like Prime Day or holiday season.

• Track all shipments: Stay updated on delivery progress and be proactive in case of any customs or carrier issues.

• Understand packaging requirements: Non-compliance with prep and packaging requirements can lead to delays or rejections at fulfillment centers.

Frequently asked questions

1. Will Amazon pick up the shipment for FBA?

If you opt for Amazon SEND, a partnered carrier will pick up your shipments from your location in India and handle customs clearance and delivery to Amazon’s fulfillment centers in the US. For non-SEND shipments, sellers are responsible for shipping inventory and may work with freight forwarders or other service providers.

2. Will Amazon send my returns back to India?

For FBA sellers, Amazon handles last-mile logistics, customer service, and returns management within the US.

What should Indian exporters know about customs duties and how to pay them?

Exporters need to account for both US import duties and Indian export duties/refunds, as well as the process to manage them efficiently.

US import duties and fees

When shipping goods to the US, your Importer of Record (IOR) or customs broker must declare the shipment via the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS). Key points include:

• De minimis threshold: Imports under $800 per shipment generally enter duty-free. ⁴
• Duties above $800: Assessed based on your product’s HTS code, country of origin, and the declared value of the goods.

Additional charges may include:
• Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF)
• Harbor Maintenance Fee (HMF)

Indian export duty and refund mechanisms

Goods exported to the US are zero-rated under GST, and you can recover duties on imported inputs through government schemes:

• Export without paying IGST by filing a Letter of Undertaking (LUT) on the GST portal and claim a refund of unutilized input tax credit.⁵
• Use schemes like Duty Drawback and Duty Credit Scrips to offset customs duties paid during procurement.⁶

Best practices for managing customs duties

Action

Benefit

Verify HTS codes

Prevent overpaying or delays due to misclassification

Use a licensed customs broker/IOR

Ensures correct duty payments and avoids hold-ups

Track your refund claims

Use ICEGATE to monitor and follow up on payouts

What are common export challenges and how do I overcome them?

Cross-border selling can be complex, especially for first-time exporters. Anticipating potential issues and preparing ahead of time is crucial.

Common challenges:

• Documentation errors causing customs delays or rejections
• High return rates due to unclear or misleading product listings
• Listing or account suspensions from non-compliance with marketplace policies
• Hidden logistics and warehousing costs eroding profitability

Solutions:

• Double-check export documents: Use qualified freight forwarders or consultants to validate shipping, compliance, and tax paperwork.
• Write clear, detailed listings: Avoid vague descriptions. Highlight dimensions, materials, usage instructions, and product limitations.
• Follow marketplace policies: Regularly check Amazon’s account health metrics and adhere to listing guidelines.
• Partner with logistics experts: Use reliable service providers or opt for services like Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) for hassle-free order fulfillment.

How can I promote my brand and attract US customers?

Marketing is essential for visibility and sales in a competitive marketplace. While listing products gets you discovered, promotion is what drives traction.

Promotion techniques:

• Amazon Ads: Amazon sellers can boost visibility through sponsored ad campaigns.
• Social media campaigns: Target US-based audiences on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.
• SEO optimization: Include relevant US keywords in your product title, description, and backend fields.
• Encourage reviews: Send post-purchase follow-ups to prompt feedback and boost ratings. You can also enroll in Amazon Vine, a program that invites trusted reviewers to try your products for free in exchange for unbiased reviews, helping you build early credibility in new markets.

Frequently asked questions

1. How do I know which products to sell on Amazon US?

Start with demand research using Amazon’s Product Opportunity Explorer tool. Look for trending niches and products with steady customer interest and low competition.

2. Does Amazon help in sourcing products?

While Amazon doesn’t source products directly, sellers can use Amazon Manufacturing Central (MFC) — a discovery platform that connects them with Indian manufacturers. Get customized products designed as per your specifications and requirements from concept to end. It’s a great way to find alternate suppliers, expand your assortment, and offer differentiated, made-to-order products.

How can I export with Amazon Global Selling?

Amazon Global Selling is an e-commerce exports program that is lowering the entry barrier for lakhs of Indian MSMEs and entrepreneurs, helping them build successful global brands. The program assists Indian exporters to sell on 18+ Amazon global marketplaces, such as the US, the UK, the UAE, Canada, France, Germany, and more. Here’s how to get started:

1. Register to export:

Choose any or all the 18 global marketplaces you want to export to. Register on Seller Central by submitting your identity proof, address proof and credit or debit card (international transactions enabled).

2. List your products:

Once registered, list your products on Amazon marketplaces. Use latest tools and expert services to make your listings more visible to customers.

3. Ship and deliver globally:

• Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA): Ship your products to Amazon’s fulfillment centers (FCs) and let Amazon handle packing, shipping, and order delivery.
• Merchant Fulfilled Network (MFN): Ship products directly to global customers — using either your own logistics service or Amazon Buy Shipping.

Frequently asked questions

1. How do I register for Amazon Global Selling and start my business?

To register as a global seller on Amazon, go to the registration portal and sign up using your email address, mobile number, business address proof, credit or debit card, and a valid Indian bank account. No US bank account is needed. You can also complete KYC verification during registration to simplify the registration process.

2. What are the documents needed for registration?

To register with Amazon Global Selling, you need:

• Email address and mobile number
• ID proof (Aadhaar, passport, or driving license)
• Credit or debit card (international transactions enabled)
• Business address proof (Bank or credit card statement)

3. What are the category-specific documents needed to sell? Does Amazon help with certifications?

Some categories like food, health, or toys require compliance documents such as FDA or CPSIA certificates. Amazon provides guidance on export compliance and can connect you with service providers who can help you obtain your documents. Visit Export Navigator to learn more about exports compliance.

4. What are the total charges for selling on Amazon US?

Total costs include a monthly subscription, referral fees, and FBA charges (if applicable). Additional charges may apply for advertising and returns.

Learn more about the costs involved in exporting to the US here

Page published: June 30, 2025
Sources:

1. https://www.oberlo.com/statistics/us-ecommerce-growth-projections
2. https://www.investopedia.com/terms/f/fda.asp
3. https://www.fda.gov/industry/importing-fda-regulated-products/importing-cosmetics
4. https://www.cbp.gov/trade/basic-import-export/internet-purchases
5. https://cleartax.in/s/impact-of-gst-on-export-of-goods-and-services
6. https://www.indiafilings.com/learn/gst-refund-for-exporters-duty-drawback-scheme
7. https://www.credlix.com/blogs/enwhat-is-duty-credit-scrips-and-how-to-sell-them