For small manufacturers in India, every investment must be planned carefully. Whether it's buying raw materials, hiring workers, or meeting government rules, the cost must bring value. One such rule is BIS Certification. Many small businesses wonder, “Is BIS Certification really worth it?” In this blog, we will explain everything in simple words so you can decide what’s best for your business.

What is BIS Certification?

BIS stands for Bureau of Indian Standards. It is the national body that ensures the quality, safety, and reliability of products in India. When a product gets BIS Certification, it means the product follows certain Indian standards and is safe for use.

For example, if you manufacture toys, electronics, steel, or household products, BIS may ask you to get certified before selling them in the Indian market.

Why Do Small Manufacturers Need BIS Certification?

You might think BIS Certification is only for big companies, but that’s not true. Even small manufacturers need it, especially if the product falls under the mandatory certification list.

Here are some reasons why it is important:

1. Legal Requirement

Some products must have BIS Certification before they can be sold. For example:

• Toys must have a BIS Certification for Toys
  
  

• Electronics like mobile phones or chargers need BIS CRS Certification
  
  

• Cement, gas cylinders, and steel products need ISI Mark Registration
  
  

If your product falls into any of these categories, you must get the proper BIS approval or you cannot sell it legally.

2. Customer Trust

People trust products with the ISI mark or BIS label. It shows that your product has been tested and approved by a government body. This can help improve sales and build a positive brand image.

3. Better Market Reach

If you plan to sell your products in large retail chains or online marketplaces, many of them ask for BIS-certified products. Without certification, you might miss out on big orders.

Types of BIS Certifications for Small Manufacturers

Let’s take a quick look at different types of BIS certifications that may apply to your business:

1. ISI Mark Registration

This is for products like electrical appliances, construction materials, kitchen equipment, etc. It shows that the product meets Indian standards (IS).

2. BIS CRS Certification

CRS stands for Compulsory Registration Scheme. This is for electronics and IT products. Under this, the product must be tested and registered with BIS before it is sold.

Examples:

• Mobile phones
  
  

• LED lights
  
  

• Power banks
  
  

3. BIS Certification for Toys

This became mandatory from 2020. Any toy (plastic or non-plastic) meant for children must be certified. If you're a toy manufacturer, BIS Certification is not optional — it's a must.

How to Apply for BIS Certification?

Thanks to digital progress, you can now apply for Online BIS Registration. Here’s how it works:

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Check if Your Product is Covered
   Visit the BIS website or contact a BIS consultant to check whether your product falls under the mandatory list.
   
   

2. Prepare the Documents
   
   

• Manufacturing unit details
  
  

• Product specifications
  
  

• Test reports from a BIS-recognized lab
  
  

• Factory license and location proof
  
  

3. Apply Online
   Use the Online BIS Registration portal to submit your application.
   
   

4. Product Testing
   You will need to get your product tested at an approved lab.
   
   

5. Inspection
   In some cases, BIS will inspect your manufacturing unit.
   
   

6. Get Certification
   Once everything is verified, you will receive your certificate.
   
   

Challenges Faced by Small Manufacturers

Getting BIS Certification may sound simple, but small manufacturers face some challenges:

• Cost of Testing – Lab testing and application fees can be expensive.
  
  

• Lack of Awareness – Many don’t know if their product needs BIS or not.
  
  

• Documentation Issues – Small businesses may not have all the required paperwork.
  
  

• Time Consumption – The process can take several weeks to months, especially if inspection is required.
  
  

Is It Really Worth It?

Now comes the big question — is BIS Certification worth the time and money for small manufacturers?

Let’s look at the benefits vs. the cost:

✔ Pros:

• Legal compliance and safety
  
  

• Better customer trust and brand image
  
  

• Opportunity to sell in large retail stores and online
  
  

• No risk of penalties or product bans
  
  

✘ Cons:

• Application and testing costs can be high
  
  

• Long approval time
  
  

• May need professional help for documentation
  
  

Final Verdict:

If your product must be certified by BIS (as per law), then it’s not just worth it — it’s necessary. Even if your product is not on the mandatory list, getting BIS Certification can give your product an edge in the market.

Tips for Small Manufacturers

If you are planning to apply for BIS Certification, here are a few tips to make it easier:

• Hire a Consultant – A BIS consultant can help speed up the process.
  
  

• Start with One Product – Instead of applying for many products at once, begin with your main product line.
  
  

• Use Online Tools – Take advantage of Online BIS Registration to avoid paperwork.
  
  

• Keep Records – Maintain a proper file of factory licenses, testing reports, and product designs.
  
  

Conclusion

BIS Certification may seem like a big task for small manufacturers, but it offers long-term benefits. It helps you follow legal rules, reach more customers, and build trust in your brand. Whether it’s BIS CRS Certification for electronics, ISI Mark Registration for standard goods, or BIS Certification for Toys, following the right procedure can open more doors for your business.

So yes, BIS Certification is worth it — not just for big companies, but also for small manufacturers who want to grow and succeed in India’s competitive market.