What is BIS Certification for Furniture? A Complete Guide for Manufacturers
In India, quality, safety, and durability have become key factors for consumers when choosing furniture. Whether it’s office chairs, school desks, or wooden tables, every piece of furniture must meet defined standards of strength and safety. To ensure this, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has made BIS certification for furniture an important compliance requirement for manufacturers and importers.This guide by ERCS Private Limited, a trusted BIS consultant in India, explains everything you need to know about BIS certification for furniture — its importance, standards, process, cost, and how expert guidance can make your certification journey faster and easier.
1. What is BIS Certification for Furniture?
BIS certification is a mark of quality and safety issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) — the national standards body of India. For furniture manufacturers, BIS certification ensures that the product complies with Indian Standard (IS) specifications related to material, construction, strength, durability, and ergonomics.When a manufacturer receives BIS certification, they are authorized to display the ISI mark on their furniture products, proving that the item has passed all required quality checks.
In simple terms, BIS certification for furniture guarantees that the furniture is safe, sturdy, and manufactured according to Indian quality benchmarks.
2. Why BIS Certification is Important for Furniture Manufacturers
Here are the key reasons why every furniture manufacturer should obtain BIS certification:
Legal Compliance: For certain categories of furniture, BIS certification is mandatory under Indian laws.- Consumer Trust: The ISI mark builds confidence among buyers and distributors.
- Market Access: BIS-certified furniture can be sold to government institutions, schools, and large corporate clients that require certified products.
- Quality Assurance: Ensures that the furniture is strong, safe, and built to last.
- Competitive Advantage: A BIS-certified brand stands out in both domestic and international markets.
3. BIS Standards for Furniture Products
The BIS has issued several Indian Standards (IS) for different types of furniture. Some of the commonly applicable ones include:| Type of Furniture | Relevant Indian Standard (IS) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Wooden furniture | IS 303, IS 710, IS 1659 | Standards for plywood and block boards used in furniture |
| Metal furniture | IS 4839, IS 3499 | Specifications for steel and tubular steel furniture |
| Plastic furniture | IS 1448, IS 13713 | Standards for plastic molded chairs and tables |
| Office & School furniture | IS 4839, IS 5970 | Ergonomic and safety standards for institutional use |
4. Process of Obtaining BIS Certification for Furniture
The process for obtaining BIS certification for furniture involves several steps that require accuracy and attention to detail. Here’s a simplified version of the process:Step 1: Identify the Product and Applicable Standard
Determine the category of furniture and corresponding Indian Standard (IS) code applicable to your product.Step 2: Testing at a BIS-Recognized Lab
Submit furniture samples to a BIS-approved laboratory for quality and safety testing. The tests evaluate factors such as material strength, finish, durability, and safety.Step 3: Prepare and Submit Documents
Gather all required documents such as manufacturing license, factory details, product drawings, and test reports.Step 4: Application Filing
Submit the online application on the BIS portal under the appropriate scheme (ISI Mark or Registration Scheme).Step 5: Factory Inspection (if required)
BIS officials may inspect the manufacturing facility to verify quality control systems and production processes.Step 6: Grant of BIS Certificate
Once all verifications are complete, BIS issues a BIS license or ISI mark certificate allowing you to use the BIS mark on your furniture products.The process can take anywhere between 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the type of product and documentation accuracy.
With ERCS Private Limited as your BIS agent, the process becomes smooth, transparent, and time-efficient.
5. Documents Required for BIS Certification for Furniture
To apply for BIS certification, you’ll need the following documents:- Company registration certificate or Udyam registration
- Manufacturing license or GST certificate
- Product specifications, drawings, and samples
- Quality control and testing equipment details
- Test reports from BIS-approved lab
- Proof of factory address and location map
- Authorisation letter (if applied through a BIS consultant)
Cost of BIS Certification for Furniture
The cost of BIS certification for furniture varies depending on:- Type of furniture (wood, metal, or plastic)
- Number of models or product variants
- Laboratory testing fees
- BIS application and inspection charges
- Consultant service charges (if applicable)
Validity and Renewal of BIS Certificate
The BIS certificate for furniture is generally valid for two years from the date of issue. After expiry, it can be renewed by submitting updated test reports and necessary documents.Renewing your certification on time ensures uninterrupted production and sales. ERCS Private Limited offers renewal support so you never miss an update.
Why Choose ERCS Private Limited for BIS Certification
ERCS Private Limited is one of India’s most trusted BIS consultants, helping businesses achieve product certification across industries — including furniture, electronics, and industrial goods.Here’s why leading manufacturers choose ERCS:
- 5+ Years of Expertise in BIS certification and compliance consulting
- End-to-End Support: Testing, documentation, application, and liaison with BIS
- PAN-India and Global Reach: Serving clients in over 22 countries
- Transparent and Cost-Effective Process
- Fast Turnaround Time with Expert Guidance
Conclusion
The Indian furniture industry is growing rapidly, driven by increasing demand for high-quality, durable, and safe products. To stay competitive and compliant, obtaining BIS certification for furniture is essential for every manufacturer and importer.It not only ensures quality and reliability but also opens doors to government projects, institutional buyers, and export opportunities.
Partnering with a professional BIS consultant like ERCS Private Limited makes the process simple, fast, and stress-free. From identifying the right IS standard to managing lab testing and certification, ERCS handles every step with precision and professionalism.