How to Import Brassware from India | Step-by-Step Buyer Guide

Aligarh in Uttar Pradesh is one of India's main centres for sand-cast brass, and most of the brass idols, urlis and bells sold in shops abroad start their journey in a foundry like ours. Importing directly cuts out a layer of trading margin and lets you order the exact sizes and finishes your customers want. This guide walks through an import order from first enquiry to delivery.

1. Shortlist designs and request a quotation

Start with a list of designs, the quantity of each, the finish you want and your destination city. Browse our brass statues and urlis, add pieces to the quote basket, and send the list in one request. A useful quotation should state:

the unit price for each design and finish, and whether it changes with quantity;
the minimum order quantity (for most of our designs, 5 pieces);
production lead time and the shipping method it assumes;
the Incoterm the price is based on (see step 4).

Once you agree, the supplier issues a proforma invoice. Your bank and, often, your customs broker will want to see it.

2. Order samples before a bulk order

Hand-cast brass varies a little from piece to piece, and photographs never fully show the finish. For a new supplier or a new design, order one sample of each item first. Check the weight against the listing, the sharpness of the casting, the evenness of the polish or patina, and that stone work is set firmly. Samples usually travel by air courier, so they arrive within days of dispatch.

3. Agree payment terms

Common terms for handicraft exports are an advance by international bank transfer to start production, with the balance paid before dispatch against photos or a video of the finished goods. Large or repeat orders may use a letter of credit. Whatever you agree, it should be written on the proforma invoice.

4. Choose an Incoterm and a shipping method

The Incoterm decides who pays for and manages each part of the journey:

EXW / FOB: you or your freight forwarder take over at our premises or at the Indian port, which suits buyers who already ship from India.
CIF / CFR: we pay freight to your port and you handle import clearance.
DAP (formerly DDU): we deliver to your door and you pay import duty and taxes. This is our default for courier shipments.
DDP: delivered with duties paid, which can be quoted for some destinations.

Samples and small orders go by express courier. Heavy statues and larger orders are cheaper by sea freight, either as part of a shared container (LCL) or a full container (FCL), usually through JNPT (Mumbai) or Mundra. Sea transit adds several weeks, so plan festive-season stock early. Our shipping and export policy has the details.

5. Check the HS code and import duty

Customs classify goods by Harmonized System (HS) code, and the duty rate depends on the code and your country. Brass statues and ornaments are commonly classified under heading 8306 (statuettes and other ornaments of base metal), bells and gongs under 8306.10, and household brassware such as urlis and kalash often under 7418. Confirm the final code with your customs broker before ordering, because it decides the duty you pay. If your country has a trade agreement with India, the certificate of origin may let you claim a lower rate.

6. Packing and documents

Brass is heavy, and badly packed statues arrive with bent hands and chipped stone work. Ask how each item is packed. We wrap every piece in anti-tarnish tissue and bubble wrap, add foam padding, use 7-ply export cartons and put castings over 15 kg in fumigated, ISPM-15 marked wooden crates. With the shipment you should receive:

commercial invoice and packing list;
certificate of origin;
air waybill or bill of lading for tracking;
a fumigation certificate when wooden crates are used.

7. Lead times to plan around

In-stock items can be dispatched within a few business days of confirmation. Made-to-order castings, custom finishes and bulk quantities take roughly 10–25 business days to cast and finish, depending on size and quantity, before transit time is added.

Ready to start?

Send us your list of designs and quantities through the quote basket, on WhatsApp or from our contact page, and we will reply with a proforma invoice, packing details and shipping options for your destination.