Travel and logistics sectors rely heavily on suitcases, which makes consumer demand for durability, safety and quality standards critical. The Government of India, a through the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS,) established quality norms for suitcases to ensure they meet prescribed standards for performance and longevity because of their mechanical use and exposure to wear and tear.

This article provides an in-depth exploration of the BIS certification for air travel suitcases, covering the applicable Indian Standards certification procedures, required documentation, and frequently asked questions (FAQs).

 What is BIS Certification?

BIS certification operates as a quality conformity scheme that verifies that products meet applicable Indian Standards (IS). The certification establishes trustworthiness while verifying that the product aligns with quality, safety and reliability standards defined by the Indian government.

The necessity of BIS certification depends on specific product classifications and legal requirements, which dictate it as either mandatory under QCO regulations or voluntary.

Read More: Introduction To Bureau Of Indian Standards

 Is BIS Certification for Air Travel Suitcases Mandatory?

As of now, BIS certificate for Travel Suitcases Mandatory is voluntary. There is no Quality Control Order (QCO) issued by the Ministry of Commerce or the Ministry of Consumer Affairs that mandates compulsory BIS certification for suitcases.

However, several suitcase manufacturers opt for voluntary BIS certification to:

• Boost consumer confidence
• Ensure product quality
• Gain access to institutional and government tenders
• Enhance brand reputation and export readiness

 Applicable Indian Standard for Travel Suitcases Mandatory

IS 5679:2022 is the updated Indian Standard that covers technical and quality requirements for moulded suitcases commonly made from thermoplastics, polycarbonate, ABS, and other polymers.

Scope of IS 8518:1977 – Specification for Moulded Suitcases

This standard lays down the quality and performance criteria for suitcases including:

• Material quality (plastic body, hinges, handles)
• Dimensions and permissible tolerances
• Mass and volume capacity
• Drop resistance
• Handle tensile strength
• Wheel performance
• Locking mechanism integrity
• Environmental resistance (temperature, impact)
• Marking and labelling requirements

It is applicable to hard shell, soft shell, cabin, and check-in moulded suitcases used for personal and commercial travel.

 Benefits of BIS Certification for Air Travel Suitcase

Below, we mentioned BIS Certificate for air travel suitcase

•  Demonstrates product quality and durability
•  Improves brand credibility
•  Eligible for institutional purchases and tenders
•  Preferred by large distributors and e-commerce platforms
•  Improves product marketability in India and abroad
•  Builds consumer trust via ISI mark labeling

Step-by-Step Process for BIS Certification for Travel Suitcases Mandatory (ISI Mark Scheme)

Travel Suitcases Mandatory are certified under the ISI Mark Scheme (Domestic Manufacturer Certification Scheme). The process is outlined below:

Step 1: Identify Standard and Product Category

Confirm that the suitcase model complies with IS 8518:1977 in terms of materials, testing parameters, and labelling.

Step 2: Register on BIS Portal

Visit the official BIS Manakonline Portal and register your organisation. Apply using Form V under the ISI Mark Scheme.

 Step 3: Product Testing

Send your suitcase samples to a BIS-recognized laboratory for testing against parameters such as:

• Drop and impact resistance
• Tensile strength of handle
• Rolling performance of wheels
• Structural rigidity and locking safety

 Step 4: Factory Audit by BIS

The BIS officer visits your factory to evaluate:

• Manufacturing workflow
• In-house test lab equipment
• Quality control procedures
• Raw material sourcing and traceability

 Step 5: License Grant

If your factory passes the audit and your product passes lab testing, BIS grants a license to use the ISI mark on your suitcases.

Read More: Process for getting BIS for Certification

Documents Required for BIS Certification for Travel Suitcases Mandatory

Read More: Documents Required For BIS Registration

 Cost Structure for BIS Certification

Prices may vary depending on production volume, product variants, and lab testing requirements.

 Marking Requirements

Each certified suitcase must carry the following markings:

• ISI mark with license number (e.g., CM/L-XXXXXXX)
• Manufacturer name or registered logo
• Standard number: IS 8518:1977
• Batch number and manufacturing date
• Volume or size specification

These details must be either embossed, printed, or permanently affixed on the inner panel or handle of the suitcase.

 BIS License Renewal & Surveillance

Though BIS certificate for suitcases is voluntary, once a license is granted, the manufacturer must comply with:

• Annual surveillance audits by BIS officials
• Market sample testing (surprise inspections may occur)
• License renewal every 1–2 years based on performance and compliance history

For renewal, you must submit:

• Updated internal test reports
• Sales and production records
• Payment of the renewal and marking fee

BIS for Imported Suitcases – FMCS Scheme

If you are importing suitcases into India and want to use the ISI mark voluntarily, you must apply under the Foreign Manufacturers Certification Scheme (FMCS). This includes:

• Appointing an Authorised Indian Representative
• Sending product samples for lab testing
• Allowing BIS audit in the foreign factory
• Complying with labelling and documentation norms

Role of Consultants in BIS Certification for Travel Suitcases Mandatory

BIS certificate for Travel Suitcases is a technical and documentation-heavy process. An expert consultant can assist with:

• Identifying the correct Indian Standard
• Preparing technical files and SOPs
• Coordinating with laboratories for product testing
• Ensuring audit-readiness
• Filing renewal or variant extension applications

This ensures that your certification journey is efficient, compliant, and free from errors.

How ELT Corporate Can Help You

At ELT Corporate, we specialise in providing end-to-end assistance for BIS certification of toothpaste, including

• Document preparation
• Lab coordination
• BIS portal submission
• Factory inspection support
• Liaison with BIS officials

 Whether you are a domestic brand or a global exporter, we ensure fast-track BIS certification with complete legal compliance.

Get in touch with our experts today and simplify your certification journey!

Conclusion

Though not mandatory as of now, BIS certificate for Travel Suitcases Mandatory under IS 8518:1977 can significantly enhance a brand’s value, product reliability, and customer trust. As consumer demand for quality and standardised products increases, BIS-certified suitcases are likely to see greater acceptance in both domestic and global markets.

If you’re a manufacturer, private label brand, or exporter, pursuing BIS certification voluntarily is a forward-thinking decision that aligns with future regulatory expectations and buyer preferences.