GeM seller guides

GeM catalogue upload guide: avoid rejection

8 min read · Updated 2026-06-11

By GemSetu Research · Independent GeM seller platform

Why catalogue upload fails on GeM

GeM rejects roughly one in three first-time catalogue submissions — usually for wrong HSN codes, missing brand/OEM authorisation, image spec violations, or price list format errors.

Each rejection adds 3–7 days while your competitors quote on live bids.

Step-by-step catalogue upload checklist

Pick the correct GeM category and HSN. Upload product images on white background per GeM specs. Attach OEM authorisation if you are a dealer/distributor.

Set competitive MRP and stock availability. For services, map SAC codes and scope of work clearly — vague descriptions are a top rejection reason.

Brand approval and Make in India

Branded products need manufacturer authorisation on letterhead. Make in India categories require local content declarations and sometimes BIS/ISI marks.

Keep PDFs under GeM's 1 MB limit — compress scans before upload. GemSetu stores full-resolution vault copies separately.

Find bids once your catalogue is live

After approval, set bid alerts for your categories. GemSetu indexes 40,000+ active GeM bids and emails you when matching tenders appear.

Try gemsetu.com/demo — no login required to see bid matching and the Bid Folder Pack workflow.

Frequently asked questions

What is the most common GeM catalogue rejection reason?

Wrong HSN/SAC codes and missing OEM brand authorisation for dealers are the top causes. Always match the exact GeM category and attach manufacturer letters on letterhead.

How long does GeM catalogue approval take?

First submissions typically take 3–7 working days if documents are correct. Rejections add another review cycle — compress PDFs under 1 MB to avoid upload errors.