How to sell online in India (marketplaces, own store or WhatsApp)

Selling online opens your business to customers across India. You have three routes: marketplaces, your own store, and WhatsApp. Here is how to start and what you need in place.

Step 1: Pick your channel

Marketplaces (Amazon, Flipkart, Meesho) bring traffic but take commission. Your own store keeps margins but needs marketing. WhatsApp is the fastest, lowest-cost start. Many sellers use all three.

Step 2: Sort GST and documents

Marketplaces require GST for most categories. Register for GST, keep your PAN and bank account ready, and set up HSN codes for your products.

Step 3: Set up payments

Add UPI and a payment gateway so customers can pay online. For WhatsApp selling, share a payment link per order.

Step 4: Arrange delivery

Use a courier aggregator to get discounted shipping and tracking across couriers. Set clear delivery timelines and a return policy.

Step 5: Capture and follow up on customers

Log every buyer and enquiry so you can re-market and take repeat orders. A CRM turns one-time buyers into regulars, which is where online sellers make real money.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need GST to sell online?

For most marketplace categories, yes. Selling on your own site or WhatsApp below the GST threshold may not require it, but marketplaces generally mandate a GSTIN.

What is the cheapest way to start selling online?

WhatsApp with a catalog and UPI payments. Zero listing fees, customers already there, and you can move to marketplaces or your own store as you grow.

How do I handle online returns?

Set a clear return policy, use a courier aggregator with reverse pickup, and track return reasons so you can reduce them over time.