Buyer guide
Importing from India to the UK
UK home, gift, lifestyle and design retailers have long sourced from India. This guide covers the practical steps of importing from an Indian factory into the UK after the changes brought by the post-Brexit customs regime.
Core documentation
You will need a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading and certificate of origin. Indian exports are zero-rated for GST, so Indian tax should not appear on the invoice. Import VAT and any duty are handled on the UK side under your EORI number.
Customs, duty and VAT
UK import duty depends on the commodity code and origin, and import VAT is charged on the landed value. Register for an EORI number and work with a customs agent to classify goods correctly. This is general guidance rather than customs or tax advice — confirm the detail for your product.
Product compliance and labelling
Textiles need accurate fibre composition and care labelling; furniture upholstery must meet UK fire-safety requirements; and chemical restrictions under UK REACH apply to dyes and finishes. Build these into the specification so they are tested before shipment, not discovered at the border.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an EORI number to import from India to the UK?
Yes, a UK EORI number is required to clear goods through customs. Your customs agent will use it alongside the commodity code to calculate duty and import VAT.
Does UK upholstery fire safety apply to imported furniture?
Yes. Upholstered furniture sold in the UK must meet UK fire-safety requirements, so specify and test compliance before production ships.
Is Indian VAT charged on UK imports?
No. Indian exports are zero-rated for GST. UK import VAT and any duty are applied on the UK side at the landed value.
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