Import Auto Parts to India

When This Applies

This guide is for importing automotive components, spare parts, tyres, batteries, and accessories into India. Auto parts may require BIS certification, AIS approval, or homologation depending on the component type and whether they are for OEM or aftermarket use.

Documents Needed

• Commercial Invoice and Packing List with part numbers, OEM references, and material specifications
• Bill of Lading or Airway Bill
• IEC code and GSTIN
• BIS certification for safety-critical components (brakes, lamps, mirrors, etc.)
• AIS approval for components falling under Automotive Industry Standards
• Country of origin certificate
• Insurance certificate

Common Mistakes

• Importing safety-critical auto parts without BIS or AIS approval
• Confusing OEM parts with aftermarket parts, which may have different approval requirements
• Incorrect HS classification — auto parts span multiple chapters (84, 85, 87, 90)
• Not checking whether the component is on the mandatory BIS list for automobiles
• Importing tyres without BIS ISI mark or without compliance with rolling resistance and wet grip norms

Estimated Timeline and Process

Pre-shipment (4–12 weeks): BIS/AIS certification for safety-critical parts. Aftermarket parts may have simpler requirements.

Freight (sea 18–25 days; air 3–5 days): Sea freight for bulk parts; air for urgent spares and low-volume components.

Customs clearance (2–5 days): Document verification, possible BIS check, duty payment, and release.

How Sea Air Cargo Systems Can Help

We clear auto parts at Chennai Port and Bengaluru airport regularly. Our team checks BIS and AIS requirements, ensures correct HS classification across multiple chapters, and handles customs examination. Contact us for auto parts import support.

Pre-Shipment Checklist

• Confirm BIS AIS certification or AITL approval for the specific auto part category
• Verify the part number matches the OEM catalogue and any homologation certificates
• Check whether the part is on the automatic import monitoring list (steel, aluminium, or rubber components may need additional scrutiny)
• Ensure the supplier provides a detailed packing list with HS codes, part numbers, and material composition
• Confirm dangerous goods documentation if the shipment includes airbags, brake fluid, or batteries

What to Ask Your Supplier Before Shipping

• "Can you provide BIS AIS or AITL certification for this part number?"
• "Is this part original equipment (OE) or aftermarket? OE parts may qualify for different duty treatment."
• "Can you share the material breakdown (steel grade, aluminium alloy, rubber compound) for customs classification?"
• "Will you provide a certificate of origin if we are claiming preferential duty?"

Cost Factors to Plan For

Auto part duty ranges from 7.5% to 30% BCD depending on material and end use, plus 18% IGST. BIS AIS testing can cost ₹1,00,000–₹5,00,000 depending on the component. Sea freight is standard for bulk parts; air is used for critical just-in-time inventory. Use our Landing Cost Calculator to plan total landed cost.

What Customs Commonly Verifies

• BIS AIS or AITL certificate coverage for the part number
• HS classification accuracy — mixing up OE vs aftermarket changes rates
• Material composition declarations for steel and aluminium parts
• Valuation against OEM price lists and comparable imports

Air vs Sea Freight for Auto Parts

Auto parts are usually shipped by sea in FCL containers for OEM supply chains. Air freight is reserved for urgent replacement parts, warranty claims, or prototype components. Just-in-time (JIT) supply chains may use a mix of both modes depending on inventory buffers.

When to Contact a CHA

Auto part imports require BIS verification and precise HS classification. A CHA with automotive experience can pre-verify documents, coordinate with BIS-accredited labs, and ensure customs clearance aligns with your production schedule. Contact Sea Air Cargo Systems for auto part clearance.

Frequently Asked Questions