Start Here: The Import Process Overview
Before you dive into product-specific guides, understand the general import workflow. First, you need an IEC code and active GST registration. Next, identify the compliance requirements for your product — BIS for electronics, FSSAI for food, CDSCO for medical devices, and so on. Then calculate your landed cost including freight, insurance, duty, and local charges. Only then should you place your purchase order.
After the order is placed, your supplier ships the cargo, and your CHA files the Bill of Entry on ICEGATE. Customs assesses the declaration, may examine the cargo, and once duty is paid, issues the Out of Charge. The entire process from order to warehouse can take anywhere from 2 weeks (air freight with existing compliance) to 5 months (sea freight with new BIS certification).
Product Import Guides
Click any guide below for step-by-step compliance, document checklists, cost factors, and customs tips specific to that product.
📱 Import Mobile Phones to India
BIS CRS, WPC ETA, IMEI declarations, and customs duty for smartphone imports. Covers pre-shipment checklists, supplier questions, and what customs verifies.
Read the guide →💻 Import Laptops to India
BIS certification, WPC approval, serial number tracking, and air freight tips for laptops. Includes battery compliance and charger certification.
Read the guide →💡 Import LED Lights to India
BIS CRS, anti-dumping duty, HS codes, and sea freight guidance for LED lighting. Best practices for bulk container imports.
Read the guide →💄 Import Cosmetics to India
CDSCO registration, import licences, ingredient disclosure, and labelling for beauty products. Covers serum, cream, and makeup imports.
Read the guide →🥤 Import Food Supplements to India
FSSAI Central Licence, FICS NOC, ingredient restrictions, and customs clearance for supplements and nutraceuticals.
Read the guide →🧸 Import Toys to India
BIS CRS, phthalate testing, age-labelling, and high duty considerations for toy imports. Covers infant and children's toys.
Read the guide →👕 Import Textiles to India
Fibre-content labelling, HS classification, and customs duty for garments and fabrics. Includes preferential duty rules.
Read the guide →🔧 Import Auto Parts to India
BIS AIS certification, OEM documentation, and HS classification for automotive components. Covers OE and aftermarket parts.
Read the guide →☀️ Import Solar Panels to India
BIS certification, ALMM requirements, and duty considerations for renewable energy imports. Covers cells and modules.
Read the guide →🏥 Import Medical Devices to India
CDSCO registration, risk classification, and customs clearance for healthcare equipment. Covers diagnostic and surgical devices.
Read the guide →Related Resources
Product compliance is only one part of importing. You also need to understand customs documentation, duty calculation, and freight selection. Visit our Compliance Guides for certification deep-dives, Freight Calculator Guides for cost planning, and Customs Clearance Guide for the overall process.
Need help with your shipment? Sea Air Cargo Systems is a licensed CHA in Bengaluru since 1999. Contact us for a free consultation, use our Landing Cost Calculator to plan your budget, or WhatsApp us for a quick reply.
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