In today’s competitive market, customers expect transparency, accuracy, and fairness while purchasing goods. Whether you are selling packaged food, cosmetics, electronics, or household items, correct product information builds trust and protects consumer rights. This is where Legal Metrology Labelling Rules play a vital role.

In India, legal metrology laws ensure that consumers get accurate details about quantity, price, and manufacturer information. For retailers, following these rules is not just good practice—it is a legal obligation. Failure to comply can lead to heavy penalties, product seizure, or even business suspension.

In this blog, we will explain Legal Metrology Labelling Rules every retailer must follow, who needs Legal Metrology Registration, the importance of Legal Metrology Manufacturing License, LMPC License Registration, and Model Approval Certification—all in simple and easy language.

What Is Legal Metrology?

Legal Metrology refers to laws and regulations related to weights, measures, and labeling of goods. In India, it is governed by:

  • Legal Metrology Act, 2009

  • Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011

These laws ensure that:

  • Products are sold in standard quantities

  • Labels carry correct and complete information

  • Consumers are not misled by false claims

Why Legal Metrology Labelling Rules Are Important for Retailers

Retailers are the final link between manufacturers and consumers. Even if the manufacturer has followed the rules, retailers can still be penalized if they sell non-compliant packaged goods.

Key reasons why retailers must comply:

  • Protect consumer rights

  • Avoid legal penalties and fines

  • Build customer trust

  • Ensure smooth inspections

  • Maintain brand reputation

Who Needs to Follow Legal Metrology Labelling Rules?

Legal Metrology rules apply to:

  • Retail shop owners

  • Supermarkets

  • Online sellers (e-commerce platforms)

  • Importers

  • Manufacturers and packers

  • Distributors and wholesalers

If you sell pre-packaged goods, these rules apply to you.

What Is a Pre-Packaged Commodity?

A pre-packaged commodity is any product that is packed without the buyer being present and has a fixed quantity.

Examples include:

  • Biscuits and snacks

  • FMCG products

  • Cosmetics

  • Electrical appliances

  • Medicines (except those governed by separate drug laws)

Mandatory Legal Metrology Labelling Rules for Retailers

Let us understand the essential label details that every retailer must ensure are present on packaged goods.

1. Name and Address of the Manufacturer or Packer

Every package must clearly mention:

  • Name of the manufacturer or packer

  • Complete postal address

  • Customer care contact details (phone/email)

If the product is imported, the importer’s details must also be displayed.

2. Common or Generic Name of the Product

The label must clearly mention what the product is.

For example:

  • “Washing Powder”

  • “Hair Oil”

  • “LED Bulb”

Fancy brand names alone are not enough.

3. Net Quantity Declaration

This is one of the most important Legal Metrology requirements.

The net quantity must be mentioned in:

  • Weight (kg, g)

  • Volume (litre, ml)

  • Number (pieces)

Example:

  • Net Weight: 500 g

  • Net Volume: 1 litre

  • Quantity: 10 pieces

The font size must be readable and clear.

4. Maximum Retail Price (MRP)

Retailers must ensure:

  • MRP is printed on the package

  • MRP includes all taxes

  • No retailer sells above MRP

The price must be written as:
“Maximum Retail Price ₹___ inclusive of all taxes”

5. Date of Manufacture or Packing

Each product must mention:

  • Date of manufacture OR

  • Date of packing

For imported products, the date of import may also be required.

6. Best Before or Expiry Date

If the product has a limited shelf life, it must mention:

  • “Best Before”

  • “Use Before”

  • “Expiry Date”

This is crucial for food items, cosmetics, and medicines.

7. Country of Origin (For Imported Goods)

Imported products must clearly state:

  • “Country of Origin: ____”

This rule is strictly enforced in India.

8. Consumer Care Details

Every label must include:

  • Customer care number

  • Email ID

  • Address for complaints

This helps consumers raise issues easily.

9. Font Size and Visibility Rules

Legal Metrology rules specify:

  • Minimum font size

  • Contrast with background

  • Placement of declarations

Hidden or unclear information can lead to penalties.

Legal Metrology Registration: Is It Mandatory for Retailers?

Yes. Legal Metrology Registration is mandatory for retailers dealing in packaged commodities.

Retailers must register with the Legal Metrology Department of their respective state.

Documents Required:

  • Identity proof

  • Address proof

  • Shop registration

  • GST certificate

  • Passport-sized photographs

Legal Metrology Manufacturing License Explained

A Legal Metrology Manufacturing License is required if you manufacture weighing or measuring instruments such as:

  • Weighing scales

  • Fuel dispensers

  • Measuring tapes

  • Weighbridges

This license ensures that instruments meet government accuracy standards.

Even retailers who manufacture or assemble such devices must obtain this license.

LMPC License Registration: Who Needs It?

LMPC License Registration (Legal Metrology Packaged Commodities License) is required for:

  • Importers

  • Packers

  • Manufacturers dealing with packaged goods

If you import packaged goods into India, LMPC registration is mandatory before import.

Benefits of LMPC License:

  • Legal import clearance

  • Avoid customs delays

  • Smooth market entry

  • Consumer confidence

Model Approval Certification: What It Means

Model Approval Certification is required for weighing and measuring instruments before they are manufactured or sold.

It ensures:

  • Accuracy

  • Standard compliance

  • Reliability of instruments

Without model approval, selling such devices is illegal.

Common Legal Metrology Violations by Retailers

Retailers often face penalties due to:

  • Missing MRP

  • Incorrect net quantity

  • Selling above MRP

  • Old or expired products

  • Unregistered business

  • Incorrect importer details

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Non-compliance with Legal Metrology laws can result in:

  • Fines up to ₹1,00,000

  • Product seizure

  • Legal notices

  • Business license suspension

  • Repeat offence penalties

How Corpbiz Helps with Legal Metrology Compliance

Corpbiz is a trusted legal and compliance partner for businesses across India.

Corpbiz Services Include:

  • Legal Metrology Registration

  • Legal Metrology Manufacturing License

  • LMPC License Registration

  • Model Approval Certification

  • Label compliance review

  • End-to-end documentation support

With Corpbiz, businesses can focus on growth while experts handle compliance.

Why Choose Corpbiz?

  • Experienced professionals

  • End-to-end support

  • Affordable pricing

  • Pan-India services

  • Timely updates and follow-ups

Corpbiz ensures your business stays compliant, safe, and inspection-ready.

FAQs on Legal Metrology Labelling Rules

1. Is Legal Metrology Registration mandatory for retailers?

Yes, retailers selling packaged goods must obtain Legal Metrology Registration.

2. Can retailers be penalized for manufacturer mistakes?

Yes. Retailers are responsible for selling compliant products.

3. Is LMPC License Registration required for online sellers?

Yes. E-commerce sellers dealing in packaged goods must comply.

4. What is the validity of Legal Metrology registration?

It varies by state but generally ranges from 1 to 5 years.

5. Is Model Approval Certification compulsory?

Yes, for weighing and measuring instruments.

Final Thoughts

Legal Metrology Labelling Rules are not just legal requirements—they are tools for transparency, fairness, and trust. Retailers must ensure that every packaged product on their shelves meets these standards.

By obtaining proper Legal Metrology Registration, Legal Metrology Manufacturing License, LMPC License Registration, and Model Approval Certification, businesses can avoid penalties and build a credible brand.

If you want hassle-free compliance, Corpbiz is your go-to partner for all Legal Metrology services.

Author Profile

Atul Shukla
Atul Shukla is a legal and compliance expert with extensive experience in business registrations, regulatory approvals, and statutory compliance in India. He specializes in Legal Metrology, GST, and corporate laws, helping businesses stay compliant and grow with confidence.