Hello All,
1) You can send an item of any value without an IEC code. But if it gets seized at Mumbai, Delhi or Chennai customs, then they will ask for an IEC code.
IEC is not needed to be placed on every shipment. But when the authorities ask, you MUST be able to provide it else you are screwed.
Hence, please do not be under wrong impressions about the IEC.
2) Along with the IEC, you must also get an approval code from bank to allow you to accept foreign currency. Although you receive payments in INR from PayPal, you must be able to present a letter from your bank.
3) You cannot send medicines unless you have a Drug License. Not even Herbal Medicines. Until you are caught, every thing is fine.
4) Cosmetic Items are covered under Indian Drugs and Cosmetic Act of 1967 in which even if you send simple Henna or Mehndi, then also you must have a Drug License. Every thing is fine until you are scrutinized by customs.
I see lot of sellers selling herbal medicines on eBay without any licenses. This is dangerous.
Over the counter medicines does not mean that you can sell them without a license. They can be purchased without prescription but cannot be sold without a license otherwise every pan shop would start selling cough syrups
like Glycodin, Benadryl or pain killers like Crocin and Anacin which are advertised on TV. Understand the difference between buying and selling before you venture.
Good Luck,
From Hell..