Export of electronic goods from India: Packaging and customs guide

From the smartphones in our pockets to the machinery powering industries, electronics are an indispensable part of modern life. As global demand for these devices thrives, so does India’s electronics export sector. 

The country has committed to reach US$300 billion in electronics manufacturing and US$120 billion in exports by 2025-26, demonstrating the sector’s immense growth potential¹. If you’re in the electronics business, strategic logistics will be crucial to successfully capitalize on this wave of growth. 

However, shipping electronics internationally brings its set of challenges. It demands special care due to the products’ sensitive nature, making them prone to damage, theft, or tampering. Furthermore, you’ll need to contend with country-specific import regulations to ensure your electronic exports from India clear customs successfully. 

As such, this guide will walk you through how to ship electronics internationally, from essential packaging basics to navigating customs, ensuring your successful export of electronic goods from India. 

How to pack electronics for shipping

When packing electronics for shipping, the choice of packaging material is paramount. It forms the first line of defense in ensuring your valuable goods arrive at their destination safely and intact.

Shock-absorbent inner packaging

Sensitive electronic components are highly susceptible to shock and vibration during transit, which is why you need shock-absorbent inner packaging. Utilizing anti-static and protective materials can also help to prevent damage. Consider these options when packaging fragile items for shipping:

• Bubble wrap: These plastic sheets provide excellent cushioning against impacts and vibrations. Wrap individual components securely to prevent movement within the package.
• Foam inserts: Custom-fit foam cradles or inserts offer superior protection by immobilizing items and absorbing external shocks effectively.
• Anti-static bags: Electrostatic discharge can cause irreparable internal damage to sensitive electronic components, so protect them with these bags during handling and transit.

Double-boxing for added protection

For enhanced protection, especially for high-value or particularly fragile electronic goods, double-boxing is highly recommended. This method involves placing your primary packaged item within an inner box and then surrounding that inner box with a layer of cushioning material, such as crumpled paper or foam peanuts. 

The entire assembly is then packed inside a larger, sturdy outer box. This multi-layered approach creates a buffer zone that effectively dissipates external forces and impacts, providing superior protection against damage throughout the shipping journey. 

Labeling 

Clear and prominent labels on multiple sides of the parcel notify handlers about its sensitive nature, guiding them on the necessary care. For example, signs like 'Fragile' and 'Handle with Care' will remind handlers not to toss the box or place it under heavy weights, significantly protecting your shipment’s integrity. 

Additionally, always include a clear recipient address, accurate country codes, and legible tracking labels on your package. This detailed information helps ensure efficient sorting, routing, and accurate delivery, making the overall international shipping process much smoother.

Packaging large or high-value electronics

When shipping large items or high-value electronic goods, standard packaging may not be enough. These substantial or particularly sensitive shipments demand a specialized approach, so it’s a good idea to engage the help of a trusted logistics service provider. 

For example, DHL Express offers custom packaging solutions tailored to the specific dimensions and fragility of your large items. Our expertise ensures these crucial assets are properly secured and handled with the utmost care throughout their journey. 

Customs compliance for electronic exports from India

Ensuring seamless customs compliance is another critical step for a smooth export of electronics from India. Adhering to regulations prevents delays and ensures your goods reach their destination without complications.

List of documents required for export

For your export of electronic goods from India, you will need to prepare several essential shipping documents for shipment customs clearance. These typically include:

• Commercial invoice: This provides a detailed record of the sale, including the value, quantity, and description of your electronic goods for customs valuation.
• Packing list: This document itemizes the contents of each package, detailing weights, dimensions, and quantities, which is crucial for inspection and inventory.
• Air waybill: For air shipments, this serves as a contract between the shipper and carrier, providing tracking information and proof of receipt.
• IEC code: Your Import Export Code (IEC) is a mandatory 10-digit code issued by the DGFT, essential for export and import activities in India.

HS code of electronic goods

Harmonized System (HS) codes are internationally standardized numbers used to classify products for customs purposes. Correctly identifying the HS code of your electronic goods is vital for accurate duty assessment and to ensure smooth shipment customs clearance. 

Here are some common electronics product categories and their HS codes²:

• Smartphones: 8517.13
• Computers and laptops: 8471.30
• Lithium-ion batteries: 8507.60
• Spark plugs: 8511.10

To find your product’s HS code, you can use dedicated tools like the DHL Express Interactive Classifier, which guides you through the classification process for efficient customs clearance service.

Duties and taxes 

When exporting electronic goods from India, duties and taxes need to be paid before the shipment can successfully clear customs in the destination country. The responsibility for paying these charges is determined by the Incoterm you choose. 

Incoterms are globally recognized rules that define the responsibilities of buyers and sellers for the delivery of goods under sales contracts. Therefore, you must select the correct Incoterm and ensure both you and your recipient are clear on your customs obligations.

Here are some Incoterms that may apply to your electronic exports:

• DAP (delivered at place): The seller delivers goods to a named place, ready for unloading. The buyer is responsible for the goods thereafter.
• DPU (delivered at place unloaded): The seller delivers and unloads goods at a named place, after which the buyer assumes all responsibility.
• DDP (delivered duty paid): The seller handles all costs and risks, including import duties and taxes, until goods reach the named destination, placing the most obligation on the seller.

For even more comprehensive planning, you can use the MyGTS platform to calculate estimated duties and get landed cost estimates for your shipments.

How to ship electronics overseas safely and securely 

To ship electronics internationally and ensure their safe arrival, you can adopt several strategies to enhance security throughout the journey. Here's how to do so:

• Insure the shipments: Comprehensive shipping insurance provides financial protection against loss or damage during transit, safeguarding your valuable electronics.
• Track proactively: Utilize advanced tracking systems to monitor your shipment's real-time location and status, allowing you to react quickly to potential issues.
• Use the Signature on Delivery option: This option ensures that your goods are received by the intended recipient, adding an extra layer of security and accountability.
• Choose a reliable logistics partner: Partnering with an experienced international shipping services provider ensures expert handling, secure transportation, and robust support for your exports.

DHL Express: Your preferred choice for electronics exports

Successful exports of electronic goods from India hinge on strategic preparation, meticulous tracking, and expert shipment management. 

However, handling the entire export process from end to end can be a significant undertaking. This is where an experienced international shipping services provider like DHL Express can ease your load.

With an efficient global delivery network complemented by smart tools like the MyDHL+ platform, our services are designed to bring flexibility and peace of mind to your delivery process. you may look forward to real-time tracking capabilities and other value-added options like shipping insurance, duties-paid shipping, and Saturday delivery when you ship with us. 

Leverage our proven expertise in high-value shipments and achieve export success – open a business account with DHL Express today!