Starting an online store in India involves several steps, from business registration to setting up your eCommerce website and handling logistics. Here's a detailed step-by-step guide: --- 1. Choose a Product or Niche Decide what you want to sell: physical products, digital goods, or services. Validate demand and analyze competitors. --- 2. Register Your Business Business Structure: Choose a suitable structure (Sole Proprietorship, Partnership, LLP, Pvt Ltd). Registration: Register with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) or your local authority. PAN & TAN: Get a Permanent Account Number (PAN) and Tax Deduction and Collection Account Number (TAN). GST Registration: Mandatory if turnover exceeds ₹40 lakhs (₹20 lakhs for services) or if selling interstate. --- 3. Open a Business Bank Account Open a current account in your business name for transactions. --- 4. Choose a Platform to Build Your Store You have two options: a) Hosted Platforms (No coding) Examples: Shopify, Wix, Instamojo, Dukaan, Zoho Commerce Pros: Easy to use, built-in tools Cons: Monthly subscription fees b) Self-hosted Platforms (More control) Use WordPress + WooCommerce, Magento, or OpenCart Requires hosting (e.g., Bluehost, Hostinger) and a domain --- 5. Get a Domain Name & Hosting Choose a domain name relevant to your brand (e.g., www.yourstore.in) Buy hosting if using self-hosted platforms --- 6. Set Up Payment Gateway To accept online payments: Popular options: Razorpay, Paytm, Instamojo, Cashfree, CCAvenue Required docs: Business registration, PAN, bank account, website privacy policy/terms --- 7. Plan Logistics & Shipping Partner with logistics providers: Shiprocket, Delhivery, India Post, DTDC Decide return/refund policy Manage inventory and packaging --- 8. Add Products & Content High-quality images Product descriptions, pricing, stock info SEO-optimized content (title, meta description) --- 9. Market Your Store Use digital marketing: Google Ads, Facebook Ads, Instagram, SEO Create social media profiles Offer discounts or referral programs --- 10. Track and Optimize Use tools like Google Analytics, Facebook Pixel Monitor traffic, conversions, abandoned carts Adjust based on performance