Power banks sold in India must be registered with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) under the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS), and tested to IS 13252 (Part 1), the Indian standard for IT equipment safety. Registration must be in place before goods are imported and sold, and every unit and its packaging must carry the BIS Standard Mark with the registration number. Products without a valid registration risk being held at customs or removed from sale.
This guide is for Indian importers, distributors and brand owners sourcing power banks and solar power banks from China. It covers the standard, the registration route for foreign manufacturers, labeling and factory support. Registration rules and fees change, so confirm current requirements on the BIS CRS portal or with a BIS consultant.
The Basics
| Item | What applies to power banks |
|---|---|
| Scheme | BIS Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS) for electronics and IT goods |
| Standard | IS 13252 (Part 1), safety of information technology equipment |
| Related standard | IS 16046 covers sealed secondary cells and batteries; cells used inside may need their own registration |
| Testing | At a BIS-recognized laboratory in India |
| Who registers | The manufacturer, for each factory and brand. Foreign manufacturers appoint an Authorized Indian Representative |
| Marking | BIS Standard Mark with registration number (R-number) on the product and packaging |
Note that IS 16242 is sometimes mentioned for power banks, but it covers UPS and inverters, not portable power banks.
How the Registration Works for a Chinese Factory
- The manufacturer appoints an Authorized Indian Representative, often the importer or a consultant.
- Samples are sent to a BIS-recognized lab in India for testing to IS 13252 (Part 1).
- The application is filed on the BIS CRS portal with the test report and factory documents.
- After approval, the registration number is printed with the BIS mark on products and packaging.
Registration is tied to the manufacturing site and brand. If you sell under your own brand, the registration must cover your brand. Plan time for testing and approval before the first shipment, and do not ship stock that carries the mark before the registration is granted.
The Cell Matters Too
Lithium cells inside power banks are covered by IS 16046. Indian labs and BIS may ask for the cell registration details. Ask your factory which cell manufacturer and model are used, and whether that cell has a valid BIS registration. Changing cells after registration can make your registration invalid for the new configuration.
Products That Suit the Indian Market
India is a large market for solar power banks in rural areas with unreliable grid power, and for budget and mid-range wireless power banks in cities. When choosing a model, consider:
- Heat. Summer temperatures in many regions are high. See our guide on solar power banks in hot climates.
- Dust and handling. Rugged, dust-resistant housings and sealed ports reduce returns.
- Honest solar claims. Solar is a backup. Charge from the wall or a USB charger whenever possible.
- Price band. Registration and testing costs are per model, so a focused range of a few registered models is more efficient than many variants.
What the Factory Provides
- Samples for Indian lab testing
- Factory documents for the CRS application
- Cell information and cell registration details
- Label and packaging artwork with the BIS mark and registration number
- A fixed bill of materials for registered models
- UN38.3 and SDS documents for shipping
What to Send Us for an Accurate Quote
- Models from our solar power bank or wireless power bank range
- Your brand name and whether you already have an Authorized Indian Representative
- Whether BIS registration exists for the model or needs to be started
- Quantity per model and color
- Target launch date in India
Contact our sales team and we will plan samples and documents with you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Indian standard applies to power banks?
IS 13252 (Part 1) under the BIS Compulsory Registration Scheme. Cells inside are covered by IS 16046.
Can a Chinese factory register directly with BIS?
Yes, through an Authorized Indian Representative appointed by the manufacturer.
Where must the BIS mark appear?
On the product and its packaging, with the registration number.
Do I need a new registration if I change the cell?
A change in critical components can affect the registration. Check with BIS or your consultant before any change.