Shipping Goods to India from the USA

India Import Regulations: A Complete Guide for U.S. Shippers

India is a major destination for U.S. exports and personal shipments, but it enforces complex and highly regulated customs procedures. Whether you're a business or an individual shipping from the USA, it's essential to understand India’s import duties, documentation rules, product standards, and tax structure.

This guide outlines how to navigate the Indian import system and explains how a reputable international shipping company can help reduce your international shipping costs while ensuring smooth and affordable shipping to any city in India.

Key Facts About Importing to India

Imports must be declared to the Indian Customs Authority via the ICEGATE system.
Shipments are subject to Basic Customs Duty (BCD), Integrated Goods and Services Tax (IGST), and possibly a Social Welfare Surcharge.
Many products require BIS certification, English labeling, and specific import licenses.
Personal effects can be shipped under the provisions of the Transfer of Residence.

A skilled international shipping company helps ensure full compliance and better control of delivery timelines and costs.

Step-by-Step: How to Import to India

1. Choose an Importer of Record (IOR)

To import into India, you require a licensed Importer of Record (IOR)—a registered entity holding a valid Import Export Code (IEC).

Businesses can use their own IEC number.
Individuals typically rely on a local customs broker or international shipping company with an Indian representative to handle documentation and filing.

2. Prepare Required Documentation

All imports must be declared via India’s ICEGATE portal. Required documents include:

Commercial invoice (must include HSN codes and declared value)
Packing list
Bill of Lading or Air Waybill
Certificate of Origin (for duty concessions)
Import License (if required for restricted goods)
GSTIN (for Indian importers)
IEC code

Be precise and consistent. Indian Customs is known for strict scrutiny and document matching.

3. Calculate Import Duties and Taxes

India applies multiple charges to imports, including:

Basic Customs Duty (BCD): Typically 0–10%, based on product category
IGST (Integrated Goods & Services Tax): Generally 18% on most items
Social Welfare Surcharge: Usually 10% of the BCD

Duties and taxes are assessed on the CIF value (Cost, Insurance, and Freight).

A reliable international shipping company can estimate your total international shipping cost, including duties, before the goods are shipped.

4. Understand Compliance and Certification Requirements

India has strict import compliance requirements. Depending on the product, you may need:

BIS Certification (mandatory for electronics, appliances, steel products, etc.)
WPC license (for telecom or wireless-enabled goods)
FSSAI approval (for food and beverage items)
CDSCO registration (for pharmaceuticals or cosmetics)

Labeling must be in English and include:

Product name
Country of origin
MRP (Maximum Retail Price)
Importer’s name and address
Manufacturing and expiration dates

Pre-approval is essential. A competent international shipping company can assist with certifications and pre-clearance.

Shipping Personal Effects to India

If you are relocating, you can import used personal effects and household items under the Transfer of Residence provision with reduced or waived duties.

To Qualify:

You must have lived outside India for at least 2 years
You are transferring your permanent residence back to India
Items must have been used abroad and are not for resale
Goods must be imported within 1 month before or up to 3 months after your return

Documents Required:

Passport
Visa or OCI card
Inventory list
Proof of residence abroad
Indian residence address

Items such as TVs, new electronics, or high-value goods may still be subject to duties even under the Transfer of Residence.

Labeling & Packaging Requirements

India enforces detailed labeling standards. Every retail product must display:

Product name and description
MRP (Maximum Retail Price) in Indian Rupees
Date of import and packaging
Manufacturer and importer contact details
Country of origin
Safety instructions (if applicable)

All labeling must be in English, printed or securely affixed to the product before clearance.

Who Can Help?

Work With a Licensed Indian Customs Broker or Shipping Partner

A licensed customs broker in India can:

File the Bill of Entry in the ICEGATE system
Calculate and pay duties on your behalf
Schedule inspections (if required)
Release goods from the port or CFS

The best option for most U.S. exporters and personal shippers is to partner with a full-service international shipping company. They’ll coordinate both U.S. export and Indian import procedures, offering affordable shipping and complete compliance assistance.

Final Import Checklist for India

✅ Requirement	Applies to	Action
Importer of Record (IOR)	All shipments	Use an IEC holder, a customs broker, or an agent
Customs declaration (ICEGATE)	All imports	Submit electronically via Bill of Entry
Customs duties (BCD)	Most goods	0–10% based on classification
IGST (18%)	All commercial goods	Paid on CIF value + BCD
BIS / WPC / FSSAI certification	Regulated goods	Obtain licenses before shipment
English labeling	All consumer goods	Must include MRP, origin, and importer details
Transfer of Residence relief	Returning individuals	Submit proof of residence and item inventory

Conclusion: Shipping to India from the U.S.

Importing into India can be challenging, but with the right preparation and support, it’s manageable. Stay informed about documentation, taxes, and labeling to avoid delays and penalties.

A reputable international shipping company can simplify the process, reduce your international shipping cost, and ensure affordable shipping to India with full customs support.