BIS REGISTRATION FOR COTTON BALES IS 12171:2019

Cotton Bales are covered under the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS) of the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and must obtain BIS registration before being sold, stored, or distributed in the Indian market. The product falls under the Indian Standard IS 12171:2019 – Cotton Bales – Specification, which prescribes the requirements, sampling methods, and test procedures for the production and handling of cotton bales to ensure uniform quality, packaging, labeling, and safety during transportation and storage.

The process begins with product testing in a BIS recognized laboratory as per IS 12171:2019 requirements. After testing, the manufacturer must apply for BIS registration through the CRS online portal by submitting the test reports along with relevant documents such as manufacturing details, authorization letters, factory address proof, and quality management information. BIS then reviews the application, verifies compliance, and issues a BIS Registration Certificate with a unique Registration Number upon approval. Once registered, every bale or its packaging must display the BIS Standard Mark along with the registration number to indicate conformity with the standard.

Document Checklist for COTTON BALES IS 12171:2019

Completed CDF/CCL Form: Fully filled and signed CDF (Customer Declaration Form) / CCL (Customer Compliance List).
BIS Application Form: Properly completed BIS registration application for the product.
Business License of Manufacturing Unit: Copy of the manufacturing license, including an English translation and local language version if applicable.
Scope of Business License: Documentation detailing the authorized activities of the manufacturing unit, translated into English and local language.
Manufacturer’s ISO Certificate: Proof of quality management system certification.
Product Marking Details: Sample product label or marking information for BIS compliance.
Authorization Letter: Required if the signatory of the application is not the head of the manufacturing unit.
Trademark Certificate: Copy of the registered trademark for the product.
Trademark Authorization Letter: If the trademark is owned by a third party, a letter authorizing the manufacturer to use it.
Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) Documents: For foreign manufacturers, provide proof of AIR registration in India and ID of the authorized signatory.
Product Technical Specifications: Detailed technical specification sheet or user manual for the amplifier.

Essential Guidelines for Securing BIS Certification in India

Obtaining BIS Certification in India is a crucial step for manufacturers aiming to sell electronic and electrical products legally within the country. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) ensures that only safe, high quality, and compliant products reach the Indian market. To successfully acquire BIS registration, manufacturers must fulfill four fundamental criteria.

Manufacturer Requirement: BIS licenses are granted exclusively to manufacturers. While importers can represent foreign companies during the application process, the certification is officially issued in the manufacturer’s name. This ensures accountability, product integrity, and compliance with India’s strict safety and quality regulations.

Verified Manufacturing Location: Providing an accurate manufacturing address is mandatory. If a manufacturer operates multiple facilities producing the same product, each site requires a separate BIS license. This verification guarantees traceability and regulatory compliance, allowing authorities to monitor production standards efficiently.

Product-Specific Registration: Each unique product must have its own BIS registration. However, multiple models falling under the same product category can be grouped under a single license. This approach ensures all product variations comply with the required technical and safety standards without unnecessary duplication of certifications.

Brand or Trademark Compliance: Every distinct brand or trademark used for a product must obtain a separate BIS license. This protects consumers by ensuring that every product sold under a brand name meets the prescribed safety, performance, and quality norms.

Compliance not only allows manufacturers to enter the Indian market confidently but also builds consumer trust, brand credibility, and regulatory reliability, essential for long-term business success.

How to Get BIS Certification in India?

The steps to acquire BIS certification for COTTON BALES IS 12171:2019 may differ based on the manufacturer’s location, with separate guidelines for domestic and foreign manufacturers.

Steps	Foreign Manufacturer Process	Domestic Manufacturer Process
STEP:1	Appoint an Indian Authorized Representative to act on behalf of the foreign manufacturer.	Start the online BIS test request process directly as the manufacturer.
STEP:2	Complete the online submission on the BIS portal.	Conduct sample testing at a BIS approved laboratory for compliance verification.
STEP:3	Arrange sample testing at a BIS recognized laboratory to ensure product meets Indian standards.	Submit the application along with the sample test report through online channels.
STEP:4	Submit the online application, including the sample test report.	BIS Officials review and verify the application and supporting documents.
STEP:5	BIS review: Officials assess the application, documentation, and sample test results.	License approval: BIS grants the certificate if all requirements are fulfilled.
STEP:6	Grant of Licence

Nomination of AIR for foreign manufacturers

For foreign manufacturers aiming to sell electronic or electrical products in India, appointing an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) is a mandatory step under the BIS Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS). The AIR acts as the official point of contact between the foreign manufacturer and BIS, ensuring smooth application submission, sample testing, and regulatory compliance.

The Appointment of an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) follows a structured hierarchy:

Clause 1	If the foreign company maintains a liaison or branch office in India, that office automatically serves as the AIR, acting as the official point of contact with BIS authorities.
Clause 2	When no liaison or branch office exists in India, the Indian proprietor or registered owner of the brand or trademark displayed on the product assumes the role of AIR, ensuring compliance with BIS CRS regulations.
Clause 3	In cases where there is neither an office nor an Indian brand owner, a designated Indian entity must be appointed as the AIR to manage all BIS related procedures, including application submission, sample testing, and coordination with BIS officials.

Complete BIS CRS Process Video Guide for Manufacturers

Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) Working Process

Top Considerations Before Submitting Your BIS Application

1. Choose a BIS Recognized Testing Laboratory and Trusted Compliance Partner

Always select a BIS approved testing laboratory and collaborate with an experienced compliance partner in India. This ensures accuracy in documentation, testing, and communication with the Bureau of Indian Standards.

2. Verify Laboratory Accreditation and Status

Confirm that the chosen lab’s BIS license is valid and active. Avoid sending samples to a lab undergoing or awaiting audit to prevent delays in certification.

3. Plan Safe and Complete Sample Shipment

Ensure proper packaging, documentation, and logistics for your product samples right from dispatch to safe delivery at the BIS-recognized testing laboratory.

4. Accurate Completion of CDF and CCL Forms

Fill the Construction Data Form (CDF) with correct product specifications and the Critical Component List (CCL) with precise component details to avoid discrepancies during verification.

5. Submit Valid Test Reports Within the Stipulated Time

Test reports are valid for 90 days from issuance. Make sure to submit them to the BIS before expiration. If delayed, a fresh product sample must be sent for retesting.

6. Prepare All Documents Prior to Testing

Keep every required document such as licenses, technical files, and authorization letter ,ready before initiating the sample testing process to ensure a smooth workflow.

7. Understand BIS Approval Timelines

Once all documents and test reports are submitted, BIS approval typically takes 15 to 30 days. However, depending on product complexity, it may extend up to 60 days for final registration.

8. Authenticate and Notarize All Documentation

All forms and supporting documents must be duly signed by the manufacturer, brand owner, and Authorized Indian Representative (AIR). Additionally, get them notarized and officially stamped to maintain legal authenticity.

Streamline Your BIS Registration Process with AV

When it comes to obtaining BIS CRS Certification in India, Absolute Veritas stands out as a trusted and experienced BIS Registration Consultant. We assist manufacturers and importers in achieving timely BIS approval by managing the entire process from documentation, testing, and sample preparation to final application submission.

As a leading private compliance organization, Absolute Veritas offers end-to-end services including inspection, product testing, audits, and certification consulting. Our expertise ensures that your products meet all Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY) requirements under the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS).

Expert Compliance Support and Advisory Services for Manufacturers:

1	Liaison with government departments to address any company queries or clarifications.
2	Strategic support for business continuity and growth.
3	Regular updates on upcoming regulations and compliance requirements.
4	Facilitation of meetings with BIS Bureau of Indian Standards and ministries for product inclusion/exclusion clarification.
5	Drafting emails to BIS department for clarifications on BIS regulations/QCO.
6	Legal compliance partnership for representing the company to various government organizations.
7	Expert advice on new product inclusion in BIS Registration (CRS) & BIS Certification, regulatory compliance, and QCO interpretation based on draft Orders from relevant ministries.
8	Advisory services for representation to ministries for NOC or product exclusions.
9	Analysis reports to ensure compliance with evolving standards and regulations.
10	Support in standard formulation and testing method scheme development.
11	Product evaluation and guidance on BIS Registration (CRS) Scheme & BIS Certification.
12	Comprehensive in house infrastructure for streamlined certification processes.

Partnering with Absolute Veritas (AV) guarantees a smooth, efficient, and compliant registration experience, enabling you to focus on quality and growth.

For any questions regarding the most recent update on BIS registration licenses, please reach out to us via email at cs@absoluteveritas.com