E-Commerce Founder's Checklist: GST, Legal Metrology & Returns in India

Why This Matters

Running an e-commerce store in India means following strict product disclosure rules. Miss them, and you risk customer complaints, regulatory notices, and lost trust. The good news: most of these are simple to implement if you plan ahead.

This checklist covers the big four: GST, product origin, legal metrology (weights and measures), and returns policy. These are not optional.

1. GST Declaration

Every product must display the applicable GST rate clearly. Consumers need to know the tax component of the price they're paying.

• Show GST rate on the product page (e.g., "18% GST applicable").
• Break down the pre-tax and post-tax price if you choose.
• Your invoice must also itemise GST.

If you sell multiple product categories (food, clothing, electronics), rates will vary. Get your accountant or GST consultant to map each category correctly.

2. Country of Origin

Indian law requires you to disclose where a product is manufactured. This builds consumer trust and is mandatory under consumer protection rules.

• Clearly state "Made in India" or "Made in [Country]", as applicable.
• Place it prominently on the product page, not hidden in fine print.
• If a product is assembled in India but contains imported parts, describe it accurately (e.g., "Assembled in India from imported and Indian components").

3. Legal Metrology: Weights, Measures & Quantity

Products sold by weight, volume, or quantity must display exact measurements. This falls under the Legal Metrology Act.

• Packaged foods and beverages: Must show net weight or volume in grams, millilitres, or litres (e.g., "500g").
• Clothing and textiles: Dimensions or sizes must be exact.
• Other goods: Display the unit measurement clearly (e.g., "Pack of 12", "5 litres").
• Avoid vague terms like "large" or "extra large" for consumables.

Inconsistency between your listing and the actual product shipped is a common breach. Double-check with suppliers.

4. Returns and Refund Policy

Under the Consumer Protection Act, you must have a clear returns and refund policy. It's not enough to have one internally; it must be visible to customers before they buy.

• Clearly state the return window (e.g., "30 days from delivery").
• Specify condition requirements (unused, unopened, undamaged, original packaging, etc.).
• Explain refund timelines (e.g., "Refund processed within 7 business days of return approval").
• Be fair: Overly restrictive policies invite complaints and negative reviews.
• Non-returnable items: If some products cannot be returned (e.g., fresh food), say so explicitly.

Your policy must also link to or reference the national consumer disputes resolution framework.

5. Quick Checklist for Your Product Page

• GST rate clearly visible.
• Country of origin stated.
• Exact weight, volume, or quantity listed.
• Returns and refund policy linked or summarised.
• Allergen information (if food).
• Warranty or guarantee details (if applicable).
• Seller contact information for complaints.

Build It Right from the Start

Adding compliance features later means redesigning templates and re-listing products. A well-structured e-commerce platform built with compliance in mind handles all of these declarations automatically, reducing manual errors and keeping you audit-ready.

Final Note

This is general guidance, not legal advice. Regulations vary by product category and state. Consult a legal or compliance professional for your specific business.

Start with this checklist today. Your customers and regulators will thank you.

This article is general information, not legal advice. For your specific situation, please consult a qualified professional.