HS Code for Power Bank in India: Import Duty, BIS and Compliance

Power banks look simple: a box of cells with a USB port. But in my years handling electronics shipments, they've been one of the products importers most often get stuck on, because the invoice says one thing, the supplier's code says another, and BIS has its own view on top.

Here's how I'd think about it before booking the shipment.

The usual HS code: 8507 60 00

The reasoning is straightforward once you see it: a power bank's job is to store electrical energy and give it back later. That's exactly what heading 8507 covers. The USB circuit inside only manages charging and output; it doesn't change what the product essentially is.

Why not 8504 40 (chargers)?

This is the most common mix-up I see. Suppliers in China often put 8504 40 on the invoice because they think of power banks as "mobile chargers". But a charger (heading 8504) converts mains power; it can't store anything. A power bank can be unplugged and still charge your phone, and that storage function is what decides the code.

If your product is a charger with a small built-in battery, or a solar power station with an inverter, the answer can change. That's where the details matter.

What decides the final classification

• Cell chemistry: lithium-ion (8507 60) vs lithium polymer (usually still treated as lithium-ion) vs nickel-metal hydride (8507 50).
• Extra functions: a power bank with a built-in torch, speaker or wireless charging pad is still usually classified by its main function, but customs may ask questions.
• Large "portable power stations" with an AC inverter output are often argued under different headings. Don't assume they follow the power bank code.
• Bare cells imported to assemble power banks in India are a different line again.

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. Electronics duty rates in India change often through Budget notifications, and phased-manufacturing policies have moved battery duties more than once, so check the current rate for 8507 60 00 on the day you file.

The quickest way: run your exact power bank through a lookup, or put your numbers in the free import duty calculator.

Compliance checklist for power banks

🔴 Mandatory · 🟠 Check · 🟢 Not required

Mistakes that cost importers money

• Accepting 8504 40 from the supplier without questioning it.
• Importing a model whose BIS registration has lapsed, or a new capacity variant that isn't on the registration.
• Forgetting EPR until the marketplace (Amazon, Flipkart) asks for it.
• Booking air freight without DG documents, and finding out at the airline counter.

My advice

Power banks are a repeat product for most importers, so getting the code and BIS right once saves you on every shipment after that. If your model has anything unusual (wireless charging, AC output, a solar panel on top), check it before you place the order, not after the container arrives.