LMPC certificate full form is Legal Metrology Packaged Commodities certificate, is mandatory for every business that deals in manufacturing, selling, distributing, importing and packing of Pre-Packaged Commodities. It is also called the Importer’s License. The main purpose behind the LMPC registration is to ensure that pre-packaged goods imported into India comply with the Legal Metrology Packaged Commodities Rules, 2011.
Importers may face huge penalties and result in shipment stoppage at customs in case of non-compliance under Legal Metrology. The customs authorities have become strict in checking whether the legal metrology compliances by the importers have been fulfilled or not.
Read on to learn about the benefits, documents required, registration fees, penalties for non-compliance and registration process of the LMPC registration.
What is LMPC Certificate for Import Attractive
The LMPC (Letter of Manufacture and Product Certification) is a document required for certain imports to certify that the products being imported comply with manufacturing and quality standards. It serves as proof that the product has been manufactured according to specified guidelines and meets the necessary safety and quality requirements.
Here’s an engaging way to describe the LMPC certificate:
What is LMPC Certificate for Import
The LMPC (Letter of Manufacture and Product Certification) is a document required for certain imports to certify that the products being imported comply with manufacturing and quality standards. It serves as proof that the product has been manufactured according to specified guidelines and meets the necessary safety and quality requirements.
Unlock Smooth Import Processes with the LMPC Certificate!
Navigating the world of imports just got easier with the LMPC (Letter of Manufacture and Product Certification). This essential certificate ensures that your products meet the highest standards of manufacturing and quality before they reach your doorstep. By confirming compliance with rigorous safety and quality benchmarks, the LMPC streamlines your import process, helping you avoid delays and regulatory hiccups.
With the LMPC certificate, you can:
- Boost Your Credibility: Show your commitment to quality and standards, reassuring clients and stakeholders of your product’s reliability.
- Ensure Compliance: Stay ahead of regulatory requirements and avoid costly penalties by providing proof of adherence to industry standards.
- Facilitate Smooth Imports: Simplify your import process with a certificate that eases customs checks and accelerates the release of your products.
Documents Required for LMPC Certificate
Here is the complete list of documents required for LMPC certificate registration.
- DSC is mandatory for authorised signatory
- 2. Residential proof like Aadhaar, voter ID or Passport.
- 3. MCD/NDMC/DDA License for trade / manufacture / Factory. In case an applicant doesn’t possess the MCD license, an undertaking in the form of an affidavit has to be submitted confirming that the business premises is not located in a non-conforming area and is not likely to be sealed by the MCD.
- 4. GST registration.
- 5. Label / Packaging material / Slip/Sticker being pasted on the packaged commodity.
- 6. Memorandum of Association of the Company, Partnership deed in respect of Partnership firms.
- 7. Import-Export Code (IEC certificate).
- 8. Passport size photograph (all Directors/all Partners/Proprietor)
- 9. Proof of commercial area
- 10. Receipt of Offenses for which challenged and whether it is compounded
How to Apply for an LMPC Certificate Online in India
Step 1: Submit the Application Form Start by filling out the application form for the LMPC certificate. This form needs to be submitted to the Director of Metrology at your local government unit. You can find contact details for the Director of Metrology on the Metrology Council’s website.
Step 2: Gather and Submit Required Documents Prepare the necessary documents for your LMPC registration, which typically include:
- A copy of your business permit.
- A copy of your current merchant or store license.
- Proof of payment for city and provincial taxes for the past two years, if applicable.
- Any additional documents requested by the Director of Metrology.
Ensure that all documents are accurate and complete to avoid delays.
Step 3: Pay the Registration Fees After submitting your documents, you will need to pay the required LMPC registration fees. The payment details and amount will be provided during the application process.
Step 4: Wait for Processing Once your application and payment are received, the processing time for your LMPC certificate is usually between 7-10 working days. The Director of Metrology will review your application and notify you via email regarding the status of your application. If approved, you will receive further instructions and details about the certificate.
Important Note: If there are any incomplete or incorrect details in your application, it will be returned to you within 7 days for corrections.
Benefits of Obtaining an LMPC Certificate for Import
Simplifies and Promotes Importing: The LMPC certificate simplifies the import process by certifying compliance with legal metrology requirements. It facilitates smoother imports into India and supports the growth of trade, finance, and export sectors.
Promotes the Welfare of Consumers: Ensuring accuracy in weights and measurements helps protect consumers from underweight products and fraudulent practices, ensuring they receive the correct quantity for the price paid.
Prevents Import of Illegal Goods: The LMPC certificate aids in upholding the Legal Metrology Act, which regulates trade practices to prevent illegal or unethical activities and ensures genuine commercial transactions of packaged goods.
Saves Importing Costs and Time: By including detailed information about weights and properties of packaged goods, the LMPC certificate streamlines the customs clearance process, reducing delays, avoiding penalties, and saving time and costs associated with importing.
Builds Trust Between Seller and Buyer: An LMPC certificate enhances customer confidence by ensuring that the product’s weight and measurements are accurately verified. This fosters trust and satisfaction among customers who rely on the authenticity and accuracy of the product’s labeling.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
- Late Fee for Application: A late fee of ₹5,000 (for Delhi) will be charged if the LMPC import license application is submitted more than 90 days after the importation process begins.
- Violation of Measurements and Weights Norms: Importers, packers, manufacturers, and dealers who violate established norms may face a fine of up to ₹10,000 or imprisonment for up to one year.
- Violation of Section 11 of the LMPC Act: Non-compliance with Section 11 of the LMPC Act can result in a fine of up to ₹10,000 or imprisonment for up to one year.
- Delivering Less Quantity: If quantities delivered are less than what the end-user has paid for, the offender can be fined up to ₹10,000 or face imprisonment for up to one year.
- Importer Certificate Requirement: Importing weights or measures without an importer certificate under Section 19 of the Legal Metrology Act, 2009, is prohibited. Stricter customs enforcement necessitates obtaining this certificate before importing.
- Failure to Submit Annual Returns: Manufacturers and importers who do not submit annual returns can be fined ₹5,000 or face imprisonment for up to one year.
- Unverified Weight on Label: If a product label has an unverified weight, the importer will be penalized.
- Selling Without LMPC Declaration: Importers, sellers, distributors, and manufacturers who sell products without the LMPC declaration on the packaging may be fined between ₹2,000 and ₹10,000 or face imprisonment for up to one year, or both.