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LMPC Packaged Commodity Registration in India

Get LMPC Packaged Commodity Registration for manufacturers, packers, and importers with our quick, easy and hassle-free licensing services. Packaged Commodity Registration must be obtained within 90 days from the initiation of pre-packaging operations.
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LMPC Packaged Commodity Registration - Overview

LMPC Registration or Legal Metrology Packaged Commodity Registration is mandatory for any individual, firm, company, or organization involved in the import, manufacture, or packaging of pre-packaged commodities in India. LMPC Registration is granted by the Department of Legal Metrology under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution.
The purpose of LMPC registration is to ensure that pre-packaged commodities sold in India comply with the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011. These rules were framed to enforce the Legal Metrology Act of 2009. Additionally, State Governments have formulated their respective Legal Metrology (Enforcement) Rules to further bolster the implementation of the Act. The Legal Metrology Rules regulate the weights and measures used in trade and commerce, as well as packaging and labeling of pre-packaged commodities.
What are Pre-Packaged Commodities? As defined in Section 2, Clause (l) of the Legal Metrology Act, 2009 “pre-packaged commodity” means a commodity which, without the purchaser being present, is placed in a package of any nature, whether sealed or not, so that the product contained therein has a predetermined quantity. In simple words, a pre-packaged commodity signifies a commodity that has been pre-packaged in the absence of the purchaser to give it a predetermined quantity.
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LMPC Registration Due Date

According to the LMPC Rules, manufacturers, packers, and importers engaged in the sale, delivery, and distribution of pre-packaged commodities are required to obtain a Packaged Commodity Registration within 90 days from the initiation of pre-packaging operations.
As per the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Amendment Rules, 2017, in cases where LMPC registration applications are submitted beyond the 90-day window after the commencement of the importation process or from the date of initiation of pre-packaging operations, a late fee of Rs. 5000 will be levied.

Documents Required for LMPC Registration

Successful LMPC Registration hinges on meticulous LMPC documentation. To navigate the regulatory landscape effectively, it’s essential to assemble a comprehensive set of documents that demonstrate your commitment to compliance with legal metrology standards. These documents serve as the foundation for your application and inspection process, showcasing your business’s dedication to accurate packaging, proper measurements, and adherence to the Legal Metrology Act and Rules.

Here’s a complete list of documents for LMPC Packaged Commodity Registration!

Documents For LMPC Registration in India
  1. Applicant’s Identity Proof (any one)
    • Aadhaar card
    • Voter ID
    • Passport
  2. Applicant's Address Proof (any one)
    • Aadhaar card
    • Voter ID card
    • A Recent Utility Bill
  3. A sample Labeling or Packaging material
  4. Additional Licenses
  1. Constitution Documents (any one)
    • Certificate of Registration
    • MOA & AOA
    • Partnership Deed
  2. Proof of Registered Premises (any one)
    • Lease/Rent Agreement
    • Property Tax Receipt
  3. GST Registration Certificate
  4. Import-Export Code, if applicable
  5. Receipt of Compounded offenses (if any)
Note:
  1. Additional documents may have to be submitted, if prescribed by the State Government.
  2. Additional documents may also have to be submitted, depending on the type of commodity. For instance, FSSAI license will be required if the business deals in food products.
  3. In Delhi, if the MCD license is not available with the applicant, an undertaking in the form of affidavit is to be submitted that the business premises is not located in non-conforming area and / or is not likely to be sealed by the MCD or relocated.

LMPC Registration Application Process

To obtain an LMPC Certificate, applicants must submit an application form along with the required documents to the Department of Legal Metrology. The Department will then examine the application, inspect the applicant’s premises, and verify the compliance of packaging and labeling regulations. After being satisfied that all the requirements are met, the department will issue an LMPC certificate to the applicant.

Here is a Stepwise Guide for easy navigation of LMPC Process!

Step-1: Application Submission

The first step for LMPC (Legal Metrology Packaged Commodity) Registration begins with the submission of your application to the respective district office of Legal Metrology in your state. Provide all necessary information to complete the application. Ensure accuracy of information to avoid any delays or rejections.

Step-2: Document Submission

Attach copies of essential documents necessary for registration. We have discussed a complete list of these documents above. Make sure they are filed in their correct and updated formats for a hassle free process. At Setindiabiz, we provide complete documentation assistance to our clients. You can contact our experts for further guidance.

Step-3: Payment of LMPC Registration Fees

Proceed to pay the prescribed LMPC registration fees, as stipulated by the relevant authorities. For the fiscal year 2023-24, packers are required to submit a registration fee of Rs 500. It’s important to ensure that you have the exact amount ready, taking into account potential variations in processing fees.

Step-4: Application Review

Upon submission, your LMPC registration application will be subjected to a meticulous review process overseen by the Director of Metrology. Be vigilant for email notifications that will convey the status of your application—whether it has been accepted or rejected. Should any inaccuracies or omissions be identified, incomplete applications will be promptly returned to you within 7 days for necessary rectification.

Step-5: Inspection of Premises

If your application successfully clears the initial review, an inspector will be designated to conduct an on-site inspection of your premises. This inspection is designed to ascertain compliance with the Legal Metrology Act and Rules, ensuring that your packaging and weighing processes adhere to the regulatory standards.

Step-6: Submission of Inspection Report

The assigned inspector will furnish a comprehensive report detailing their findings during the inspection. This report may also include recommendations for improvements to achieve or maintain compliance with legal metrology requirements.

Step-7: Grant of LMPC Certificate

Based on the inspection report and your demonstrated compliance with the Legal Metrology Act and Rules, your application will advance towards the issuance of the LMPC certificate. Once approved, you will receive your LMPC certificate, granting you the legal authority to package and sell your commodities in accordance with the established standards and regulations. The Certificate will be valid for a period of five years. LMPC Renewal is required after every five years. For this, the applicant must file the renewal application to the Department of Legal Metrology.

LMPC Compliance Checklist

After receiving the LMPC Certificate, the applicant must consistently fulfill all the compliances and regulations mentioned in the LMPC Rules of 2011. These are related to the packaging and labeling of pre-packaged products with the mandatory declarations mentioned on them. Moreover, not all LMPC Rules apply to every license holder. There are a few exemptions which you must be aware of. Given below is a complete list of LMPC compliances and exemptions to help you understand better.

Mandatory Declarations on Pre-Packaged Commodities in India

The Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011, set forth crucial requirements for declarations on pre-packaged commodities in India. These declarations serve multiple purposes, including consumer information, transparency, and product authenticity. Here’s a complete list of these declarations for your reference.

Manufacturer, Packer, or Importer Details:
Each package must prominently display the name and address of the manufacturer, packer, or importer. This ensures consumers can readily identify the source of the product, fostering trust and accountability.

Common or Generic Name:
Pre-packaged items should feature their common or generic name, the term by which consumers typically recognize them. For example, packaged food items would carry names like "biscuits" or "cookies."

Net Quantity:
The package must transparently state the quantity of the commodity contained, expressed in standard units of weight, measure, or number. For example, a packet of biscuits may indicate "200 grams" or "10 pieces."

Month and Year of Manufacture:
This declaration aids consumers in assessing the product's freshness and suitability for consumption or use.

Maximum Retail Price (MRP):
The MRP signifies the highest price at which the retailer can legally sell the product to consumers, ensuring price transparency.

Moreover, depending on the nature of the commodity, specific requirements apply. For instance, package of food products and non food products must have the following declarations:
Food Products Non-Food Products
  • Detailed List of Ingredients
  • Nutritional Information
  • Disclosure of Food Additives Used
  • Clear Instructions for Use or Storage
  • Date of Expiry
  • Country of Origin
  • Comprehensive Directions for Use
  • Essential Safety Warnings
  • Warranty Information
Note: All declarations on pre-packaged commodities must be easily readable, visible, and presented in Hindi or English, or both languages, to cater to a wider audience.

Exemptions from LMPC Rules

The Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011, provide specific exemptions from the regulations. These exemptions are based on quantity, pricing, and nature of the commodity involved. It’s important to be aware of these exemptions, as they outline cases where the LMPC rules do not apply.
Quantity Exemption
  1. The provisions of these rules shall not apply to packages of commodities containing a quantity of more than 25 kilograms or 25 liters.
  2. Additionally, exemptions extend to certain specific categories, including cement, fertilizer, and agricultural farm produce when sold in bags above 50 kilograms.
  3. Furthermore, packaged commodities intended for industrial consumers or institutional consumers are also exempt from these rules.
  4. Exemption for Agriculture Farm Produce: Agriculture farm produce packages up to 50 kilograms are covered under the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011. Manufacturers, packers, and importers dealing with these packages are allowed to pack in any quantity up to 50 kilograms in compliance with these rules. [Refer Packages of agriculture farm produce up to 50kg under the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rule, 2011 vide Notification no 1-10/9/2023-W&M  dated 06.03.2023]

Exemption for Certain Medical Commodities

Certain medical commodities, including scheduled formulations and non-scheduled formulations covered under the Drugs (Price Control) Order, 2013, made under section 3 of the Essential Commodities Act, 1955, are exempt from LMPC regulations. It’s important to note that no exemption applies to medical devices declared as drugs.

Pricing Exemption

Rule 6(1)(e) of the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011, mandates that the retail sale price of a package must be clearly labeled as the maximum retail price, inclusive of all taxes, in Indian currency.
  1. Alcoholic Beverages and Spirituous Liquor: In the case of packages containing alcoholic beverages or spirituous liquor, pricing regulations differ. State Excise Laws and their accompanying rules take precedence within the state where these products are manufactured. If the state’s excise laws and rules do not specify the declaration of the retail sale price, the provisions of the Legal Metrology Rules will apply.
  2. Essential Commodities: Additionally, when the retail sale price of any essential commodity is established and officially notified by the Competent Authority under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955, these specified prices shall prevail.

Benefits of LMPC Certificate

Obtaining an LMPC (Legal Metrology Packaged Commodity) Certificate is more than just legal compliance; it’s a strategic advantage for businesses. This certification ensures accurate product packaging and measurements, fostering consumer trust, expanding market opportunities, and shielding your business from potential penalties. It also underscores your commitment to quality and provides a competitive edge in the marketplace.

Legal Compliance

Ensure your business operates within the confines of the law by obtaining an LMPC Certificate, demonstrating your commitment to adhering to legal metrology regulations. This not only keeps you on the right side of the law but also helps you avoid legal complications and potential penalties.

Consumer Trust

Build trust and confidence among consumers regarding your products and services. When customers see the LMPC Certificate, they are more likely to trust that your products are accurately measured and properly packaged, enhancing your brand's reputation.

Market Expansion

Explore new markets and opportunities for growth with the LMPC Certificate in hand. Compliance with legal metrology standards allows you to access and expand into markets that require such certification, broadening your business horizons.

Avoid Penalties

Prevent government-imposed penalties and fines due to non-compliance with legal metrology regulations. Obtaining the LMPC Certificate helps you avoid costly legal consequences that can arise from violations of packaging, weight, and measurement standards.

Product Quality Assurance

Demonstrate your commitment to delivering high-quality products. The LMPC Certificate serves as evidence that your packaging and measurements meet established standards, assuring customers that they are getting reliable and accurately measured products.

Competitive Advantage

Gain a competitive edge in the market by displaying the LMPC Certificate prominently. This certificate signals to consumers that your products are compliant with legal requirements, potentially attracting more customers and business opportunities while distinguishing your brand from non-certified competitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Packages must clearly display the maximum retail price (MRP) inclusive of all taxes in Indian currency. However, alcoholic beverages, essential commodities, and state-specific regulations may have different pricing rules.
LMPC registration stands for Legal Metrology Packaged Commodity registration. It is a mandatory requirement for any individual, firm, company, or organization involved in the import, manufacture, or packaging of pre-packaged commodities in India.

The LMPC fees for registration varies based on the type of business. Here are the fee details:

Manufacturer: Rs. 500/-

Repairer: Rs. 100/-

Dealer: Rs. 100/-

Importers: Rs. 500/-

Packers: Rs. 500/-

Renewal Dealer: Rs. 500/-

Renewal Manufacturer: Rs. 2500/-

Renewal Repairer: Rs. 500/-

LMPC registration is required to ensure that pre-packaged commodities sold in India comply with the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011. These rules regulate the weights and measures used in trade and commerce, as well as the packaging and labeling of pre-packaged commodities.
Any individual, firm, company, or organization involved in the import, manufacture, or packaging of pre-packaged commodities in India is eligible for LMPC registration.
The primary purpose of LMPC registration is to foster transparency, consumer confidence, and adherence to regulatory standards within the packaged commodities sector. It ensures that every pre-packaged product entering the market aligns with the stipulated rules, thereby safeguarding the interests of both businesses and consumers alike.
Manufacturers, packers, and importers must obtain LMPC registration within 90 days from the commencement of pre-packaging operations or importation process.
After receiving a complete application, the registering authority will conduct an inspection of the applicant’s premises. If all requirements are met, the applicant will be registered, and an LMPC certificate will be issued. While there is no specific timeframe prescribed, it typically takes approximately 20 to 30 days to complete this process. It’s important to note that incomplete applications are returned to the applicant within 7 days of receipt.
The type of LMPC registration you need depends on your business activities. If you import pre-packaged commodities into India, you need an LMPC Importer Registration certificate. If you package or manufacture pre-packaged commodities in India, you need an LMPC Packer & Manufacturer Registration certificate. If you do both, you need both types of LMPC registration certificates.
If you submit your LMPC application beyond the 90-day limit, you may incur a late fee, which is Rs. 5000, as per the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Amendment Rules, 2017.
LMPC registration is valid for five years. LMPC renewal is required after this period through an application filed to the Department of Legal Metrology.
No, a license issued or renewed under this Act is non-transferable and cannot be sold.
A packer is defined as any individual or firm that pre-packs any commodity, whether it’s in a bottle, tin, wrapper, or any other suitable unit for sale. Packers are required to register with the Department of Legal Metrology.
A pre-packed commodity refers to any product that is placed in a package without the purchaser being present, regardless of the packaging being sealed or unsealed. The defining characteristic is that the product within the package has a predetermined quantity.
Benefits include legal compliance, enhanced consumer trust, market expansion opportunities, and avoidance of government penalties and fines.
Declarations include manufacturer/packer/importer details, common/generic name of the commodity, net quantity, month and year of manufacture, and maximum retail price (MRP).
Yes, food products may require additional declarations such as ingredients, nutritional information, food additives, and usage instructions. Non-food products may need details like country of origin, usage directions, safety warnings, and warranty information.
Yes, exemptions apply to packages exceeding 25 kilograms or 25 liters, certain categories like cement and fertilizer sold in bags over 50 kilograms, and packages meant for industrial or institutional consumers.
Yes, certain medical commodities covered under the Drugs (Price Control) Order, 2013, are exempt from LMPC regulations, but no exemption applies to medical devices classified as drugs.
Packages must clearly display the maximum retail price (MRP) inclusive of all taxes in Indian currency. However, alcoholic beverages, essential commodities, and state-specific regulations may have different pricing rules.