Legal Metrology India Launches LMPC & IEC Compliance Services for Importers and Packers

LegalMetrologyIndia.com today announced the launch of a full-service compliance offering covering Legal Metrology registration (LMPC certificates), Importer & Exporter Code (IEC) facilitation, model approval, and labelling verification support — aiming to simplify regulatory compliance for importers, manufacturers, and packers of pre-packaged goods. This integrated solution addresses a critical need in the trading ecosystem, helping businesses avoid costly delays, legal penalties, and reputational risk.

1. Background & Regulatory Context

Legal Metrology is the branch of law concerned with measurement standards, weighing and measuring instruments, labelling of packaged goods, and ensuring that consumers receive accurate quantity and price disclosures. The Legal Metrology Act, 2009 and the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011 prescribe strict obligations on any entity that imports, manufactures, packs, labels, or sells pre-packaged commodities in India.

Under Rule 27 of the LMPC Rules, every importer of pre-packaged goods must obtain Importer Registration (commonly referred to as the “LMPC certificate”). Similarly, packers / manufacturers must register under the same rule to cover packaging and labeling obligations. Failure to comply may lead to stoppage of shipments, customs clearance delays, goods being detained, fines, or legal action.

The Directorate of Legal Metrology (under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs) has also empowered customs authorities under DGFT Notification RE-44 (2000) to verify compliance of importers with legal metrology requirements prior to granting clearance.

Additionally, businesses engaged in import-export trade must hold a valid Importer & Exporter Code (IEC) issued by the Director General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). The IEC acts as a basic identity for customs, foreign trade, and regulatory clearances.

Given this overlapping regulatory space, many enterprises face confusion, delays, or rejection due to non-coordinated legal metrology and trade compliance. LegalMetrologyIndia.com aims to close that gap.

2. Key Services Offered by LegalMetrologyIndia.com

LegalMetrologyIndia.com provides an end-to-end compliance package, including:

1. LMPC / Importer Registration (Rule 27)
• Filing applications with the appropriate state legal metrology authority or central controller.
• Submission of required documentation (company registration, address proof, identity proofs, packing labels, product lists, etc.).
• Coordination for on-site inspection by Legal Metrology Officers.
• Follow-up and liaison for approval, renewal, amendment, or post-registration formalities.
2. Packer & Manufacturer Registration (LMPC)
• For entities manufacturing and packing goods (or outsourcing packing under their brand), ensuring packaging, labelling, and mandatory declarations (net quantity, MRP, expiry, manufacturer/importer address, consumer care, etc.) comply with the LMPC rules.
• Managing labelling changes, schedule amendments, and corrections.
3. Model Approval & Weighing & Measuring Instruments Certification
• For any weighing/measuring instrument or device used in trade, model approval as required under Section 22 of the Legal Metrology Act.
• Calibration, stamping, verification support, and lab setup advice.
4. IEC / Import-Export Code Facilitation
• Filing of IEC applications or modifications.
• Syncing IEC with LMPC registration to avoid mismatches in customs filings.
5. Compliance Audit, Label Verification & Notice Reply
• Pre-market audit: checking existing labels and compliance status.
• Reply to legal metrology notices, appeals, objections.
• Assistance in compliance correction and due diligence.
6. Customs Clearance Support / NOC for Customs
• Helping clients produce LMPC certificate or proof of application when goods are held up at customs.
• Drafting technical notes or supporting documents required to satisfy customs & legal metrology authorities.

3. Why This Matters — Risks & Benefits

Risks of Non-Compliance:

• Import Detention or Rejection: Customs may refuse clearance of shipments if LMPC compliance is not met.
• Fines & Penalties: The legal framework allows monetary penalties and legal action.
• Operational Delay: Delays in approval or multiple rounds of correction can disrupt supply chain and cost business time and money.

Benefits of Compliance:

• Smooth Customs Clearance: With LMPC registration linked to IEC, trade becomes smoother and less obstructed.
• Consumer Trust & Brand Reputation: Compliance with legal metrology signals transparency and fairness — beneficial in consumer markets.
• Competitive Advantage: Businesses that reliably ensure labelling, measurement accuracy, and legal compliance are more trusted in B2B and retail chains.
• Legal Safety: Reduced exposure to litigation, departmental action or product seizures.
• Regulatory Readiness: Firms already LMPC-compliant are better prepared for audits, expansions, labelling changes, or new product lines.

4. Process Flow & Timeline

Below is a typical process flow for LMPC + IEC compliance through LegalMetrologyIndia.com:

Step	Activity	Approx Time*
1	Initial consultation, document collection, gap analysis	2–3 days
2	Drafting and submission of application for LMPC / importer registration, and IEC filing	1–2 days
3	Application fee payment & acknowledgment	Immediately after submission
4	Inspection by Legal Metrology Officer (premises, sample labels, packaging processes)	Within 7–15 working days
5	Scrutiny, queries / objections (if any) and responses	3–7 days
6	Grant of certificate / registration, e-certificate issuance	~20 days from complete submission*

Time estimates depend on state jurisdiction, backlog, correctness of documents, queries from authorities, and responsiveness.

Renewals or amendments follow a similar process with simplified scrutiny. LegalMetrologyIndia.com also maintains reminder systems to ensure timely renewal and avoid lapsed compliance.

5. Success Story / Client Quote (Suggested)

“After struggling with multiple rejections at customs, we engaged LegalMetrologyIndia.com — their end-to-end handling got our LMPC certificate in two weeks, and our imports now clear smoothly without holds.”
— Mr. A. Sharma, CEO, XYZ Foods Pvt Ltd

You may insert a real client testimonial or case study here, highlighting cost & time savings.

6. About LegalMetrologyIndia.com

LegalMetrologyIndia.com is an online consultancy platform specializing in legal metrology, registration, compliance, audits, and regulatory services. We help clients across India and internationally with LMPC / importer registration, model approval, packaging & labeling compliance, IEC facilitation, compliance audits, notice replies, and customs support.

With a team of regulatory, legal, technical, and metrology experts, our mission is to simplify the compliance journey so businesses can focus on growth rather than regulatory obstacles.

We invite importers, packers, manufacturers, and exporters dealing in pre-packaged goods (food, FMCG, cosmetics, electronics, chemicals, etc.) to request a free compliance consultation through LegalMetrologyIndia.com. Early registration, careful label design, and proactive audits can prevent expensive delays or shutdowns.

By aligning IEC, LMPC registration, model approvals, and labeling compliance under one roof, LegalMetrologyIndia.com helps businesses trade with confidence. For further information, case studies, or press queries, reach out via the contact above.

How to Get an Import Export License in India: Step-by-Step Guide with Fees

India's economy is among the fastest-growing in the world, and commerce with other countries is essential to its growth. Getting an import-export license is the first need if you want to launch a firm that deals with importing or exporting items across international borders. This blog will provide you with a thorough overview of the steps, necessary paperwork, and expenses associated with obtaining an import-export license in India.

 

What is an Import Export License (IEC)?

The Import Export License, also known as the Import Export Code, is a 10-digit registration number issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India. It is a key business identification number required for the import or export of goods and services from India.

Without an IEC, you cannot legally import or export anything from India. It is valid for a lifetime and doesn’t require renewal, which makes it one of the most hassle-free government registrations.

 

Who Needs an Import Export License?

Whether you're a:

• Manufacturer looking to export your products,
• Trader wanting to source raw materials from abroad,
• E-commerce business selling internationally,
• Amazon or Flipkart seller looking to go global,

you’ll need an IEC registration to legally operate across international markets.

Even freelancers offering digital services internationally (in some cases) may require IEC if the payment crosses through foreign bank channels.

 

Key Benefits of Getting an Import Export License

1. Global Market Access: IEC opens doors to international markets, allowing you to expand your business beyond national borders.
2. Easy Registration: The registration process is online, simple, and quick.
3. No Renewals Required: IEC is valid for a lifetime unless cancelled or surrendered.
4. Government Incentives: Once you have an IEC, you can avail export promotion schemes like MEIS, SEIS, RoDTEP, etc.
5. Legal Compliance: It ensures your business complies with all DGFT and Customs requirements.

 

Documents Required for Import Export License in India

The following documents are required for IEC application:

For Individuals or Proprietors:

• PAN Card of the individual
• Aadhaar card / passport / voter ID
• Passport-size photograph
• Cancelled cheque of personal bank account
• Address proof (electricity bill, rental agreement)

For Companies/LLPs/Partnership Firms:

• PAN Card of the entity
• Certificate of Incorporation
• Partnership Deed (for partnerships)
• Director’s or partner’s identity and address proof
• Cancelled cheque of business account
• Company’s address proof

Ensure all details are consistent across documents to avoid rejection.

 

How to Apply for Import Export License Online (Step-by-Step)

Here’s the step-by-step process to apply for an IEC online:

Step 1: Visit the DGFT Website

• Go to https://www.dgft.gov.in
• Create a login with your business PAN and contact details.

Step 2: Fill Out the IEC Application Form (ANF 2A)

• Navigate to “Apply for IEC”
• Fill in details like applicant name, PAN, business details, address, bank details, etc.

Step 3: Upload Required Documents

• Upload scanned copies of the PAN, photo, identity/address proof, and bank certificate.

Step 4: Pay the Government Fees

• Government application fee: INR 500 (as per DGFT portal)

Step 5: Submit and Verification

• Submit the application and wait for verification.
• After successful validation, IEC will be issued and downloadable from your DGFT profile.

Most applicants receive their IEC within 1–3 working days of submission.

 

Import Export License Fees in India (2025 Update)

Here is a breakdown of the potential fees involved:

Component	Cost (INR)
DGFT Government Fee	₹500
DSC (if required)	₹1,000 – ₹1,500
Professional Consultancy (optional)	₹1,000 – ₹3,000
PAN and Other Document Fees (if not available)	Variable

So, overall, the total cost for obtaining IEC could range from ₹500 to ₹5,000, depending on whether you apply yourself or through a legal consultant.

 

Do You Need a Digital Signature for IEC?

As per recent DGFT updates, a Class 2 Digital Signature Certificate (DSC) is not mandatory for individual proprietors but is recommended for companies and LLPs to digitally sign the application.

 

Things to Know After Getting an IEC

1. IEC Update Requirements: Any change in address, ownership, or contact info must be updated within 30 days on the DGFT portal.
2. Linking with PAN and GST: Your IEC is now automatically linked to your PAN. No separate renewal or update is needed unless your PAN details change.
3. Export/Import Reporting: Once you start importing/exporting, you’ll need to file your shipping bills, bills of entry, and GST filings accordingly.

 

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mismatched information between PAN and application
• Uploading incorrect or blurry documents
• Applying with a personal bank account for business entities
• Ignoring post-registration compliance like GST or bank AD code registration

 

Is There Any Penalty for Not Having an IEC?

Yes. Importing or exporting without an IEC is illegal under Indian law and may result in:

• Seizure of goods by customs
• Heavy fines and penalties
• Loss of shipment
• Ban from international trading

Thus, it's highly recommended to complete your IEC registration before starting any import-export activity.

 

FAQs on Import Export License

Q1. How long is the IEC valid?

IEC is valid for a lifetime, unless voluntarily surrendered or cancelled by DGFT.

Q2. Can I have more than one IEC?

No, only one IEC per PAN is allowed.

Q3. Can an IEC be cancelled or modified?

Yes, you can request modification or cancellation by logging into the DGFT portal.

Q4. Is GST mandatory for IEC?

While not mandatory for IEC application, GST is required for most import/export businesses to avail tax benefits and avoid compliance issues.

Conclusion

Getting an Import Export License (IEC) is your gateway to entering the global trade ecosystem. The process is straightforward, and with minimal fees, it’s accessible to startups, individuals, and enterprises alike. With just a few documents and a one-time cost, you can unlock new growth opportunities and establish your business on a global platform.

If you want expert guidance, professional consultants like Legal Metrology India offer end-to-end IEC registration support, ensuring error-free filing, quick processing, and compliance with all legal norms.

 

Ready to take your business global? Start by applying for your IEC today!
For any assistance, feel free to contact our expert team or visit LegalMetrologyIndia.com.