How to Start an Import Business in India: Complete Step-by-Step Guide (2025 Edition)

India is one of the world’s fastest-growing markets for imported goods. Whether you’re a retailer, wholesaler, manufacturer, small business owner, or someone looking to start a new venture — the import business offers huge profit potential with low investment.

From electronics to fashion accessories, home décor to hardware tools, thousands of Indian businesses source products from China, Vietnam, Thailand, Dubai, and other global markets.

If you want to start your own import business, this complete step-by-step guide will walk you through the entire process — simple, clear, and beginner-friendly.

1️⃣ Choose What Products You Want to Import

Your first step is identifying the right product category. You can import:

• Electronics & accessories

• Fashion items

• Keychains & bag charms

• Home & kitchen products

• Tools, hardware & machinery

• Toys, games & kid’s items

• Fitness & sports goods

• Beauty & personal care products

Choose products that are:

• High in demand

• Lightweight

• Easy to ship

• Profitable

• Not restricted in India

If you’re unsure, start with small, low-risk categories like accessories, organizers, or décor.

2️⃣ Find Reliable Suppliers

You can find suppliers through:

• Alibaba

• Global Sources

• Canton Fair

• Chinese marketplaces

But verifying suppliers is crucial to avoid scams or poor-quality goods.

A trusted company like Inex Solutions helps you:

• Find genuine suppliers

• Verify factories

• Conduct inspections

• Negotiate pricing

This protects your investment and ensures you work with real manufacturers.

3️⃣ Request Samples Before Bulk Order

Never place a big order without checking product samples.
Samples help you confirm:

• Quality

• Size & material

• Packaging

• Functionality

If samples match your expectations, then proceed with bulk order.

4️⃣ Understand Import Documentation

To import goods legally, you need:

• IEC Code (Import Export Code)

• GST Registration

• Business PAN

• Supplier Invoice

• Packing List

• Bill of Lading / Airway Bill

• Certificate of Origin

• Customs Duty Documentation

Companies like Inex Solutions manage complete documentation, ensuring fast clearance.

5️⃣ Choose the Right Shipping Method

You can import via:

Air Freight

• Fastest

• Best for small shipments

• Higher cost

Sea Freight

• Cheapest

• Best for bulk orders

• Slower delivery

If your shipment is above 1–2 CBM, sea freight is usually the best choice.

6️⃣ Calculate Your Total Landed Cost

Your final product cost includes:

• Product price

• Freight charges

• Customs duty

• GST

• Local delivery charges

This is called Landed Duty Paid (LDP).

Use Inex Solutions LDP Calculator to estimate your total cost before ordering.
This prevents pricing mistakes and profit loss.

7️⃣ Clear Customs & Receive the Goods

Once your shipment reaches India:

• Customs officers inspect your goods

• Duties are calculated

• Documentation is checked

• Goods are released for delivery

A professional logistics partner ensures this process is smooth and fast.

8️⃣ Sell Your Products Through Multiple Channels

You can sell imported products through:

• Amazon / Flipkart

• Meesho / GlowRoad

• Retail stores

• Instagram stores

• WhatsApp reselling

• Your own website

• Distributors & wholesale market

Imported goods offer high margins and excellent repeat demand.

9️⃣ Scale Your Import Business

Once you understand sourcing, shipping, and sales, you can scale by:

• Ordering larger volumes

• Expanding product range

• Building your own brand

• Selling through distributors

• Private labeling (custom packaging + logo)

The import business grows extremely fast when managed professionally.

Conclusion

Starting an import business in India is easier than ever — and the opportunities are massive.
With the right product, trusted suppliers, and reliable logistics support, you can build a high-profit business that serves retailers, wholesalers, and online shoppers across India.

Inex Solutions simplifies the entire process with:

• Supplier verification

• Factory audits

• Sample handling

• Quality inspections

• Sea & air freight

• LDP cost calculator

• Customs clearance

• End-to-end import support

Whether you are a small business owner, retailer, manufacturer, or new importer — we help you import safely and profitably.

📞 Call to Action

👉 Want to start your import business today?
Contact Inex Solutions for a free consultation and sourcing support.

📩 Email: sales@inexsolutionsconnect.com
🌐 Website: www.inexsolutionsconnect.com