Tables and desks are commonly used furniture items found in homes, offices, schools,
and workplaces. They are used for activities like studying, working, writing, dining, and
keeping everyday items. Because these products are used regularly and often support
weight, they should be stable, well-designed, and safe for daily use.
To make sure these furniture items meet proper requirements, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has set guidelines under IS 17633:2022. This standard explains how tables and desks should be designed, tested, and manufactured so that they perform properly in normal use.
Who Needs BIS Certification for Tables and Desks
- Manufacturers (India): Must get BIS certification if tables and desks are covered
under QCO
- Foreign Manufacturers: Need certification to export furniture to India
- Importers/Brand Owners: Must ensure products are BIS certified before selling
- Sellers/Distributors: Should only sell certified products
Certification is regulated by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) under IS 17633:2022.
What is IS 17633:2022
This is an Indian Standard issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards that defines the
requirements for furniture such as tables and desks. It provides clear guidelines on how
these products should be designed, manufactured, and tested before being supplied in
the Indian market.
This standard ensures that the furniture:
- Is designed for proper use and stability
- Meets required strength and load-bearing capacity
- Is safe for everyday use
- Follows specified construction and performance requirement
Testing and Inspection Requirements for Tables and Desks
To ensure proper performance and safe use of furniture items, the standard specifies
testing and inspection requirements. These tests are carried out during manufacturing
and routine checks as per guidelines of the Bureau of Indian Standards
What are R and S?
- R (Required): Test must be conducted as part of regular in-process or factory
checks
- S (Subcontracting Allowed): Test can be conducted in a BIS-recognized or
accredited laboratory
Material & Surface Tests
- Surface Performance Test (S) – Checks resistance to heat, stains, scratches,
and liquids
- Adhesive Performance (S) – Verifies bonding strength of materials used.
Design & Construction Checks
- Design and Workmanship (R) – Ensures proper construction and assembly
- Dimension Check (R) – Verifies size, height, and measurements as per
standard
Safety & Performance Tests
- Stability Test (R) – Checks balance under vertical and horizontal loads
- Strength Test (R) – Measures ability to handle applied force
- Deflection Test (R) – Checks bending of table tops under load
Durability Tests
- Durability under Load (R) – Ensures product can handle repeated use
- Stiffness Test (R) – Checks resistance to movement under force
- Impact Test (R) – Verifies resistance to sudden impacts
Special Tests
- Castor Durability Test (R) – For tables with wheels
- Drop Test (R) – Checks resistance to accidental drops
BIS Certification Process for Furniture (Tables and Desks)
The BIS certification process ensures that these tables and desks meet the
requirements of IS 17633:2022 for safe and proper use. This process is defined by the
Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and includes the following steps:
- Online Registration: Manufacturers register on the BIS portal by submitting basic details of the
company, factory, and product models. Foreign manufacturers must appoint an
Authorized Indian Representative (AIR).
- Product Testing: Samples of tables and desks are tested in BIS-recognized or accredited
laboratories as per IS requirements.
- Application Submission: The application is submitted with test reports, product drawings, technical
specifications, and factory details.
- Factory Inspection: BIS officials inspect the manufacturing unit to check the production process,
testing facilities, and quality control systems.
- Grant of BIS License: After successful verification, BIS grants the license under Scheme-I.
- Use of ISI Mark: Once approved, manufacturers can use the ISI mark with a CM/L number on
their products, showing compliance with BIS standards.
Documents Required for IS 17633 Certification
The following documents are typically required for obtaining BIS certification:
| Basic Details | - GST Certificate
- Email ID & Contact Number
- Factory & Office Address
- Rent Agreement / Lease Deed (if applicable)
|
| Legal Documents | - Partnership Deed (if partnership firm)
|
| Manufacturing Details | - List of machinery
- Process flow chart
- Layout Plan of Factory
|
| 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
- Nature of Printing / Marking on Product
|
| Management Details | - Top Management Details
- Concerned Person for BIS Communication
|
| 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 manufacturers must additionally appoint an Authorized Indian Representative
(AIR) to coordinate with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and manage compliance
requirements in India.
Marking Requirements & License Validity
Marking Requirements
When a manufacturer obtains the BIS license, the ISI mark for tables and desks must
be applied clearly and permanently on the product or its packaging. In addition to the ISI
Mark, other important details must also be provided on the product or packaging, as
specified in the table below. This ensures the product meets all quality and safety
standards.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|
| ISI Mark | Confirms BIS certification and standard compliance |
| Standard Number | IS 17633 |
| CML Number | Certification marks license number issued by BIS |
| Manufacturer Details | Name of manufacturer or registered trademark |
| Batch / Date | Manufacturing date or batch number for traceability |
Validity of BIS License for Furniture products
| Particulars | Details |
|---|
| Initial Validity | 1–2 years (as per BIS approval) |
| Renewal | Required before expiry with updated documents & fees |
| Surveillance | Includes factory inspections and sample testing |
| Compliance | Must follow BIS standards and applicable QCOs |
| Risk | Non-compliance may lead to suspension or cancellation |
>BIS Certification Cost for Furniture Tables and Desks
Cost Breakdown
Indian Manufacturers
| No. | Major Charges | Particulars | Amount | Remark |
| 1 | BIS Fees | Application Fee | INR 1,000 | — |
|
| Audit / Inspection Fee | INR 7,000 | — |
|
| License Fee | INR 1,000 | — |
|
| Marking Fee | Depends on product | Discount as per MSME |
| 2. | Testing Charges | Sample Testing Fee | As Applicable | Payable to a BIS-approved laboratory. |
| 3. | EVTL India Service Fee | Consultancy & Support | As per actual | Depends on product type and factory location. |
Foreign Manufacturers
| No. | Major Charges | Particulars | Amount | Remark |
| 1. | BIS Fees | Application Fee | USD 15 | Payable via SWIFT to BIS. SAARC countries can pay INR with 18% GST. |
|
| Audit Charges | USD 3,200 – 5,900 | Depend on Country |
|
| License Fee | USD 15 | — |
|
| Marking Fee | Depends on product | — |
| 2. | Testing Charges | Sample Testing Fee | As Applicable | Payable to a BIS-approved laboratory. |
| 3. | EVTL India Service Fee | Consultancy & Support | As per actual
| Based on product and manufacturing location. |
Conclusion
BIS certification for furniture (tables and desks) as per IS 17633:2022 ensures that
these products meet the required Indian standards for safety, design, and performance.
It confirms that the furniture is properly tested and suitable for everyday use in homes
and offices.
With the support of an experienced consultant like EVTL India, manufacturers can
follow a clear and guided process. EVTL India has strong experience in handling BIS
certification cases, assisting with documentation, coordinating testing, and preparing for
inspections, helping businesses avoid delays and complete certification smoothly
