Shipping Board Games from China to India: Import Duties and Compliance​

Shipping Board Games from China to India: Import Duties and Compliance​

Shipping board games from China to India involves navigating import regulations set by India’s Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) and compliance with safety standards outlined by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).​

Board games must meet BIS standards for safety, which include restrictions on harmful substances in materials like cardboard, ink, and plastic pieces. The games must be free from lead, mercury, and other toxic chemicals. For games with small pieces (like dice or tokens), age recommendations (typically 3+ or 6+) must be clearly marked to prevent choking hazards for young children. BIS certification is mandatory for most toys sold in India, and the BIS mark must be displayed on the packaging.​

Import duties and taxes in India can be significant, with rates ranging from 10% to 20% depending on the type of board game. Additionally, a Goods and Services Tax (GST) of 18% applies to most imports. Working with a local customs broker to calculate these costs and ensure proper payment is essential to avoid delays.​

Documentation for customs clearance includes a commercial invoice, packing list, BIS certification, and a bill of lading. The invoice must include a detailed description of the board game, its components, and value. All documents should be in English, as required by Indian customs.​

Logistics options include sea freight from Shanghai to Mumbai (30–40 days) or air freight to Delhi (7–10 days). Sea freight is more economical for large shipments, while air freight is faster but pricier. Due to India’s sometimes lengthy customs procedures, allowing extra time for clearance is advisable.​

Indian customs may inspect shipments to verify BIS compliance and assess duties, so ensuring all board games meet standards and documentation is accurate is crucial.