ONDC (Open Network for Digital Commerce) is a government-backed open network that lets buyers on one app purchase from sellers listed through another app. It aims to make online selling more accessible to small businesses.
How it works
- Buyers use a buyer app that is connected to ONDC.
- Sellers join through a seller app (a seller-side network participant).
- Orders, payments and delivery are coordinated across the network.
You do not sign up on ONDC directly; you choose a seller app that onboards you.
Who it suits
- Local shops, kiranas and restaurants.
- Small brands wanting additional reach.
- Sellers looking for lower commissions than some large marketplaces.
What you usually need
- GST registration (for most categories) and PAN.
- A bank account.
- Product catalogue with prices, images and HSN codes; find codes with our HSN code finder.
- A way to fulfil orders, through the seller app’s logistics or your own.
Choosing a seller app
Compare their fees, logistics support, catalogue tools and how they handle payments and returns.
Price carefully
Include seller app fees, delivery, packaging and GST. Use our selling price calculator.
Set realistic expectations
ONDC adoption is still growing and order volumes vary by city and category. Treat it as an additional channel alongside your own store and other marketplaces.
Read our marketplace selling guide.
Want the full picture? This article is part of Marketplace selling: the complete guide, our in-depth guide with everything in one place.
