Furniture Import Cost in India – Quick Guide
Thinking about bringing foreign furniture into India? You’ll face a mix of customs duties, GST, shipping fees and some extra charges that can surprise you if you’re not ready. This guide breaks down each cost piece, shows where the biggest price jumps happen, and gives you simple tricks to keep the bill low.
Key Factors That Drive the Cost
First up, customs duty. The rate depends on the material (wood, metal, plastic) and the furniture type. Typical duties range from 10% to 30% of the FOB (Free on Board) value. Next, GST adds another 18% on top of the customs duty and the product’s cost. Both are calculated on the invoice price, not the shipping cost.
Then there’s the shipping charge. Ocean freight is cheap for large orders but slower; air freight is fast but can blow the budget. Expect $30‑$80 per cubic meter for sea freight from Europe or the US, and $5‑$10 per kilogram for air.
Don’t forget port handling and clearance fees. These include terminal handling charges, quarantine inspections, and documentation fees. They usually total 1%‑2% of the cargo value, but they vary by port.
Lastly, consider insurance. While optional, it protects you against loss or damage during transit. A typical policy costs about 0.5%‑1% of the cargo’s declared value.
Tips to Reduce Your Import Expenses
Shop for HS codes that match your product accurately. A lower code can lower the duty percentage. Use a customs broker who knows how to classify items correctly – a small fee now can save you big bucks later.
Combine orders to hit larger containers. A full 40‑foot container spreads the shipping cost over more items, dropping the per‑item rate dramatically.
Look for Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) between India and the exporting country. Some agreements waive or reduce duties for specific categories, especially eco‑friendly or handmade furniture.
Negotiate Incoterms with your supplier. If you choose “CIF” (Cost, Insurance, Freight), the supplier covers shipping and insurance, which can simplify calculations and sometimes cut costs.
Finally, keep paperwork clean. Missing invoices or wrong values trigger penalties and delays, which add storage fees at the port.
By understanding each cost component and using these shortcuts, you can bring stylish, high‑quality furniture into India without breaking the bank. Ready to place that order? Double‑check the duty rates, lock in a shipping quote, and let a good broker handle the clearance. Your new sofa will arrive smoother, cheaper, and on time.
