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IMPORT, EXPORT & LOGISTICS IN INDIA

Hassle-free import export in India – let us manage your custom clearance, documentation, insurance, licenses, and local logistics

Import, export, logistics - Maier Vidorno Altios India
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Seamless process flow is key to trading excellence

To succeed in India’s complex markets you need the right mix of professional expertise, proven processes and powerful IT, so that your Sales Team can focus on Sales and Customer Relationships.

New entrants choose to import and trade in India before considering manufacturing in the country, but struggle with import documentations, compliance, insurance, warehousing and local transport across the different states.

/What makes Maier Vidorno Altios Import, Export & Logistics special?

The daily transactions for many international companies and our Professional team and IT Backbone (ERP/SAP) administer millions of transactions throughout India. Our clients get Economies of Scale and real time Business-Intelligence combined with our vast experience of India – at a cost that no foreign start up can afford alone. Our reporting and systems give you better Process Visibility and effective Risk Management.

/ Who are your ideal customers, and what drives their buying decisions in India?

India is a diverse and highly segmented market. Understanding your ideal customer profile—whether industrial buyers, distributors, SMEs, or large corporations—is key to positioning your products effectively. Factors like price sensitivity, brand perception, and decision-making hierarchies differ across industries, so a localized approach is essential

/What market entry model aligns best with your growth ambitions—direct sales, distribution, or strategic partnerships?

India’s vast geography and unique business environment require a well-defined sales strategy. Will a direct sales team work best, or should you collaborate with distributors who have existing networks? Alternatively, forming strategic alliances with local companies can help you scale faster and navigate regulatory challenges.

/What sales and distribution strategy will maximize your market reach while keeping costs under control?

India’s vast market requires a well-planned sales and distribution model. Should you focus on metro cities first or take a regional approach? How will you balance direct sales with channel partners? Understanding logistics, pricing structures, and supply chain dynamics will determine your market penetration success.

Import & Order Execution

Our import and order execution services cover coordination with customs and clearing agents, verification of import documentation, and accurate assessment of duties. We also assist with obtaining import/export registrations and licenses, while managing insurance to ensure secure and compliant cross-border transactions.

Storage & Logistics

Our storage and logistics services include end-to-end warehouse coordination and efficient inventory management. We handle local transportation arrangements, manage necessary permits and documentation, and coordinate payments to ensure smooth and timely logistics operations.

ERP Integration

We support seamless process integration with SAP, enabling a controlled and efficient flow from quotation to purchase order, delivery, and final payments. Our services include managing product, inventory, and stock master data, as well as maintaining accurate customer and vendor master data. Additionally, we provide periodic performance reporting to ensure transparency and informed decision-making

Supply Chain: Frequently Asked Questions

Practical answers to the most common questions international companies have when managing supply chain operations.

What is a Provisional Duty (PD) Bond and Special Valuation Branch (SVB)?

When an Indian subsidiary imports from a related foreign company, Customs needs time to verify that the transfer prices follow the Arm’s-Length Principle. 
While this review (handled by the Special Valuation Branch – SVB) is underway, imports continue using a Provisional Duty (PD) Bond. 

  • SVB checks pricing between related parties; approval usually takes 3–5 months. 
  • Until approval is granted, importers must file a PD Bond at each port. 
  • Once approved, no PD Bond is required  in case of pricing or business conditions change same needs to inform to customs for approval. 

India’s first import can feel complex, but the process is straightforward with the right registrations: 

Mandatory registrations: 

  • Importer Exporter Code (IEC) 
  • GST registration 
  • Industry-specific licences (e.g., Legal Metrology, EPR, AD Code, etc.) 

Certain products also require additional technical/compliance registrations (Based on HSN). 

Many foreign firms prefer working with an experienced importer to handle compliance, warehousing, and distribution. Once you open a subsidiary, expect stricter checks for your first independent shipment. 

Indian customers value long-lasting products and reliable service. To build trust, companies must ensure: 

  • Clear customer communication 
  • Technical diagnosis onsite or at a service centre 
  • Availability and delivery of spare parts 

Many companies use Annual Maintenance Contracts (AMCs) and extended warranty support. Long-term repair capability is expected even after warranties expire. 

Yes—but only through permitted e-commerce models: 

Marketplace Model (Allowed): 

  • Platforms like Amazon/Flipkart can be foreign-owned. 
  • Foreign companies can list products but cannot sell directly—an Indian seller must transact. 

Inventory Model (Not Allowed for >50% foreign-owned companies): 

  • Foreign-owned companies cannot sell online using their own inventory. 

In all cases, foreign companies must work with an Indian partner for actual sales, order processing, and compliance. 

To link your bank’s Authorised Dealer (AD) Code with your IEC: 

  1. Apply through the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT). 
  2. DGFT notifies Customs. 
  3. Customs updates the system so the AD Code appears automatically on all export/import documents. 
  1. Procurement & Sourcing (local and global) 
  2. Manufacturing / Production 
  3. Inventory & Warehousing 
  4. Transportation & Logistics 
  5. Import & Export (EXIM) Compliance 
  6. Distribution & Retail 
  7. Technology & Data Integration (ERP, WMS) 

HSN (Harmonized System of Nomenclature) is a standardized system for classifying goods (Globally) for taxation and trade. 

  1. It determines applicable GST rates and customs duty. 
  2. It determines the compliance requirements (Registrations or Certifications) 
  3. Policy conditions (prohibited/restricted/free import) 
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  • For Imports: 

    1. Bill of Entry 
    2. Commercial Invoice & Packing List 
    3. Bill of Lading / Air Waybill 
    4. Importer Exporter Code (IEC) 
    5. Certificate of Origin (if applicable) 
    6. HSN based requirement (registration/certification/licence) 
    7. Specific product-related certificates (FSSAI, WPC, BIS, AQCS, etc.) 

    For Exports: 

    1. Shipping Bill 
    2. Commercial Invoice & Packing List 
    3. Bill of Lading / Air Waybill 
    4. IEC & LUT/Bond (for GST exemption) 
    5. Export Promotion Copy (for incentives) 
    6. HSN based requirement (registration/certification/licence) 
    7. Specific product-related certificates (FSSAI, WPC, BIS, AQCS, etc.) 
    1. DGFT: Policy, licensing, and authorizations 
    2. CBIC (Customs): Duties, valuation, and clearance 
    3. RBI: Foreign exchange regulations and remittances 
    4. FSSAI / BIS / WPC / CDSCO: Product-specific approvals and quality standards 
    5. Ministry of Commerce & Industry: Trade facilitation 
  1. Arrival of goods at port or airport 
  2. Filing of Bill of Entry by importer or customs broker 
  3. Assessment of duty based on classification and valuation 
  4. Payment of duty through ICEGATE portal 
  5. Customs examination & out of charge 
  6. Release of goods for inland transportation 

Typical duties applicable on imports include: 

  1. Basic Customs Duty (BCD) 
  2. IGST (Integrated GST) 
  3. Social Welfare Surcharge (SWS) 
  4. Anti-dumping duty, Safeguard duty, or CVD (if applicable) 
Completed Market Analysis
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Partners identified & reviewed: Distributors, JV, Acquisitions
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Company foundations and management
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Executives recruited
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Completed cross-border investment projects
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