💨 Home and kitchen
HS Code for Hair Dryer in India: Import Duty, BIS and EPR
By Abhishek Sadashiv · 16 years of experience in global logistics · Updated 5 October 2026 · 4 min read
Usual HS code for hair dryer (import)
8516 31 00
Electro-thermic hair dryers. Straighteners, curlers and hand dryers each have their own line next to it.
Hair dryers are one of those products where the code is easy, but the product range around it is not. Sellers often import dryers, straighteners and curlers together in one container, and that is where the classification goes wrong.
Here's how I'd think about it.
The usual HS code: 8516 31 00
| Level | Code | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Chapter | 85 | Electrical machinery and equipment |
| Heading | 8516 | Electric heaters, electro-thermic hairdressing apparatus |
| Subheading | 8516 31 | Hair dryers |
| Tariff item | 8516 31 00 | Hair dryers |
A hair dryer heats air and blows it. Heading 8516 names electro-thermic hairdressing apparatus directly, and 8516 31 is the line for hair dryers. For a standard handheld dryer, this is about as clear as classification gets.
Why not 8516 32 00 or 8516 33 00?
The mix-up I see most is between neighbours in the same heading. 8516 32 00 is for "other hairdressing apparatus": straighteners, curling irons, crimpers. 8516 33 00 is for hand-drying apparatus, the wall-mounted dryers you see in office washrooms.
So one shipment with dryers, straighteners and hand dryers should have three lines on the bill of entry, not one. And a hot-air brush or multi-styler sits between dryer and styler, so it can be argued either way. That's worth checking for your exact model.
Also note that hair clippers and trimmers are not in 8516 at all. They go to 8510 with shavers.
Not sure which line your hair dryer falls under?
Describe it or snap a photo. EximSetu asks the 2–4 questions that change the code, then gives the 8-digit HS code with reasoning, the duty in rupees and the compliance checklist.
Check my hair dryer →What decides the final classification
- Function: blowing hot air (31) vs heated plates or barrels (32) vs drying hands (33).
- Multi-stylers: kits with dryer plus attachments are classified by the main function. Check the set.
- Professional salon dryers: hood dryers and large salon units can need a closer look.
- Battery-powered dryers: still a hair dryer, but the battery brings extra shipping and EPR checks.
How import duty is worked out
Duty is calculated on the assessable value (CIF in rupees): Basic Customs Duty, then the Social Welfare Surcharge on that duty, then IGST on the total. Rates change by notification, so check the current rate for 8516 31 00 on the day you file.
Use a lookup for your exact model, or the free import duty calculator.
Compliance checklist for hair dryers
| Requirement | Status | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| BIS certification (QCO) | 🔴 Mandatory | Hair care heating appliances are under the Safety of Household, Commercial and Similar Electrical Appliances QCO, in force from 1 October 2026 for most manufacturers. The manufacturer needs a BIS licence and the ISI mark. |
| E-waste EPR | 🔴 Mandatory | Hair dryers are in Schedule I of the E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022. The importer needs EPR registration with CPCB. |
| Legal Metrology | 🔴 For retail packs | Importer name and address, MRP, net quantity, month of import and customer care details. |
| Battery rules | 🟠 Check | Only for cordless models: battery EPR and dangerous goods paperwork for air freight. |
🔴 Mandatory · 🟠 Check · 🟢 Not required
Mistakes that cost importers money
- Putting dryers and straighteners on one line with one code.
- Assuming the BIS licence covers the whole range. Each model family needs to be covered.
- Forgetting E-waste EPR for a product that clearly falls under it.
- Missing Legal Metrology details on gift sets and combo packs.
My advice
If you sell a range of grooming appliances, map each product to its own code once, in a simple sheet. Then share it with your CHA and supplier. It saves arguments at Nhava Sheva and keeps your invoices consistent.
Get the exact code and duty for your hair dryer
Every variant is different. Answer 2–4 questions and get the 8-digit code with reasoning, duty in rupees and the compliance checklist in minutes.
Check my hair dryer free →Written by
16 years of experience in global logistics
Built EximSetu after 16 years in global logistics, watching shipments get held, reassessed or delayed because of a wrong HS code or a missed compliance step. Every guide here is written from that experience, for the people who actually move cargo.
Frequently asked questions
▸What is the HS code for a hair dryer in India?
Hair dryers are classified under 8516 31 00, the line for electro-thermic hair dryers.
▸What is the HS code for a hair straightener?
Hair straighteners and curling irons usually go under 8516 32 00 (other electro-thermic hairdressing apparatus), not the hair dryer line.
▸Do hair dryers need BIS certification in India?
Yes. Hair care heating appliances are under the household electrical appliances Quality Control Order, in force from 1 October 2026 for most manufacturers.
▸Does a hair dryer importer need EPR registration?
Yes. Hair dryers are listed under the E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022, so the importer needs EPR registration with CPCB.
Related HS codes
🧭 Full guide: How to Find the Correct HS Code for Your Product in India →This page is general information, not legal advice. The usual code can change with the exact product, and rates and rules change by notification. Always confirm for your exact product with your customs broker or the official notification.