There is a need to have reliable measurement procedures in different industries such as retail, manufacturing, logistics, warehousing and process control. The BIS Certificate for Electronic Weighing System (IS 9281 (Part 3):1981) is important because it ensures that the measuring device delivers accuracy, consistent performance and reliability of the readings under specific operational conditions.
The BIS certification process covers several important aspects related to testing the electronic weighing systems. These include accuracy, rated load capability, resolution, allowable voltage variation, adaptability to environmental conditions and stability of the output. Compliance with the IS 9281 (Part 3):1981 standard will be important in confirming that the product meets defined quality and performance standards.
What is IS 9281 (Part 3):1981?
This is the Indian Standard for electronic weighing systems, used in commercial, industrial, and laboratory weighing applications. The standard ensures accurate measurement, stable performance, and reliable load detection across different operating conditions. As per BIS, these weighing systems are:
- Calibrated for weighing accuracy
- Tested for load measurement consistency
- Evaluated for electronic stability
- Assessed for durability under continuous usage
Eligibility Criteria for BIS Approval
BIS authorisation under IS 9281 (Part 3):1981 is required for businesses involved in manufacturing, importing, or supplying Electronic Weighing Systems in India.
Applicable to:
- Manufacturers (India) - Must get BIS approval if the products are covered under QCO.
- Foreign Manufacturers - Need certification to export the Electronic Weighing Equipment to India.
- Importers/Brand Owners - Must ensure that the products are BIS-certified before sale.
- Sellers/Distributors - Should only sell certified Electronic Scale and Weighing Systems.
Testing Requirements for Electronic Weighing Systems
To guarantee accuracy and reliability in electronic weighing systems, BIS outlines requirements under IS 9281 (Part 3):1981. This certification ensures precise measurement, stable electronic performance, and consistent load evaluation for commercial and industrial weighing applications. The BIS testing parameters and quality checks for electronic weighing systems are listed below:
Electronic Weighing Systems BIS License Steps
The BIS Authorisation process ensures that Electronic Weighing Systems conforming to IS 9281 (Part 3):1981 meet the required standards for accuracy, reliability, electrical safety, and performance consistency. The certification is governed by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and is intended to ensure that weighing instruments deliver correct measurements under defined operating and environmental conditions. The process includes the following steps:
- Online Registration: Manufacturers register on the BIS Manak portal by submitting company, factory, and product details. Foreign manufacturers must appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR).
- Testing at BIS-Approved Laboratory: Product samples are tested in BIS-approved laboratories for rated load accuracy, non-linearity, resolution, repeatability and stability of readings.
- Application Submission: The application is accompanied by reports of test results, technical information, and information regarding factory inspection. In the case of foreign manufacturers, AIR-related papers are also required.
- Factory Inspection: Officials of BIS inspect the factory to check the process of manufacturing, safety conditions, and quality control.
- Grant of BIS License: After fulfilling all compliance issues, BIS issues the certificate under Scheme-I.
- Use of ISI Mark: Upon fulfillment of all requirements, the manufacturer is allowed to apply the ISI mark on the product together with CM/L number.
Documentation Checklist for BIS Approval
| Document Category | Documents Required |
| Basic Details | GST Certificate, Email ID & Contact Number, Factory & Office Address, Rent Agreement / Lease Deed (if applicable), Partnership Deed (if applicable for partnership firms) |
| Manufacturing Details | List of Machinery, Process Flow Chart, Factory Layout Plan |
| Raw Material Details | List of Raw Materials, Supplier Details, Raw Material Invoices, Raw Material Test Certificates |
| Testing & Quality Control | List of Testing Equipment, Calibration Certificates, QC/Lab In-charge Appointment Letter & Qualification |
| Production Details | Annual Installed Capacity, Last Year Production Value |
| Product & Packaging Details | Quantity per Package, Nature of Packing, Product Printing / Marking Details |
| Management Details | Top Management Details, BIS Communication Contact Person |
| Brand & Certification Documents | Trademark / Brand Certificate, Consent Letter from BIS Recognized Laboratory |
| Additional Documents | Weekly Off Details, Hygiene Document (if applicable), Relaxation Letter (if applicable), Any Other Relevant Document |
| Foreign Manufacturer Requirements | Agreement with AIR (Authorized Indian Representative), Aadhaar Card of AIR, AIR Nomination Form, Required Undertakings, Scope of License |
The Foreign manufacturers must designate an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) in India. The representative is the local point of contact for the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and manages all compliance and regulatory requirements in India.
Marking Requirements & License Validity
Marking Requirements
Upon the receipt of the BIS certification, the ISI mark for the Electronic Weighing Systems shall be clearly marked and permanently affixed to the body and/or packaging of the product. The marking should include other essential information like the name of the manufacturer, model number and BIS license number (CM/L). Additional details are provided below:
| Requirement | Details |
| ISI Mark | Indicates that the product is BIS certified and conforms to standards |
| Standard Number | IS 9281 (Part 3):1981 |
| CML Number | Certification Marks Licence (CML) number issued by BIS |
| Manufacturer Details | Name of manufacturer or registered trademark |
| Batch / Date | Batch number, heat number, or manufacturing date for traceability |
Note: Marking is typically applied using durable stamping, tagging, or permanent printing to ensure clear identification during handling, storage, and transportation, as per BIS marking requirements.
Validity of BIS Certification for Electronic Weighing Systems
| Particulars | Details |
| Validity | Typically 1 to 2 years, depending on BIS approval conditions |
| Renewal | Must be renewed before expiry by submitting the application along with the prescribed fee and updated documents |
| Surveillance | Includes periodic factory inspections and market sample testing conducted by BIS |
| Compliance | Continuous following to standard and applicable Quality Control Orders (QCOs) is mandatory |
| Risk | Non-compliance or failed sample testing may lead to suspension or cancellation of the BIS license |
Cost of BIS Certification under IS 9281 (Part 3):1981
BIS certification costs for the Electronic Weighing System comprise application charges, type test charges, inspection charges, licence fee, and marking charges. The charges are imposed according to Scheme-I of the BIS (Conformity Assessment) Regulations and can be different based on various parameters.
| Charge Type | Indian Manufacturers | Foreign Manufacturers |
| Application Fee | INR 1,000 | USD 15 |
| Audit Charges | INR 7,000 | USD 3,200 – 5,900 |
| License Fee | INR 1,000 | USD 15 |
| Marking Fee | As applicable | As applicable |
| Testing Charges | As applicable | As applicable |
| EVTL India Consultancy Fee | As per actual | As per actual |
Note:
- Application fee for foreign manufacturers is payable via SWIFT (SAARC countries may pay in INR with applicable GST).
- Audit charges for foreign manufacturers vary based on country/location.
- The marking fee is determined based on the product category and production volume (MSME benefits may apply).
- Testing charges are to be paid directly to BIS-recognised laboratories.
- Consultancy fees can vary depending on product type and factory location.
Conclusion
The precision and accuracy of weighing results depend to a great extent on the efficiency of the measuring device. With the help of the IS 9281 (Part 3):1981, the manufacturers of electronic weighing systems can ensure the compliance of their product with specified requirements in terms of accuracy, stability and performance. BIS Certification for Electronic Weighing Systems allows for increased confidence in retailers, industries, laboratories, warehouses, and other commercial entities that use precision weighing systems in their activities.
The process of gaining BIS certification for electronic weighing systems according to IS 9281 (Part 3):1981 could ensure that the product gains market acceptance as well as showcase the commitment towards quality and regulation. This is because the certification involves tests conducted on the products to ascertain that they conform to standards. Those organizations looking for help with regard to all these aspects should consult EVTL India.
