Required Certifications for USB Type External Hard Disk Drive

USB Type External HDDs for the Indian Market: An Insight

A USB-type external hard disk drive is a portable storage device that has become an integral part of our lives these days. These devices offer a versatile and convenient way to expand the storage capacity of computers and other gadgets. The Indian market for external USB hard drives is growing at about 7–9% annually, with demand strengthening since 2022, driven by data storage needs for personal, SMB, and enterprise users amid rising digital content creation and backup requirements. These drives come in varying capacities to store documents, media, backups, and more. With plug-and-play functionality, users can instantly access or transfer files with ease.

Key Highlights 

What are the Required Certifications for USB Type External HDDs to sell in India?

In India, a USB Type External Hard Disk Drive cannot be sold without BIS Registration and an EPR license for electronics. Let’s explore the required process, documentation, as well as compliance norms that must be followed by businesses.

BIS CRS Registration for USB Type External HDDs

Being a mandatory compliance in India, a BIS CRS certification is mandatory for USB Type External Hard Disk Drives in order to ensure they meet India’s safety and quality standards. It verifies the product's electrical safety, EMC compliance, and reliability for consumers. Without BIS registration, such devices cannot be legally sold or distributed in the Indian market. Conformance to the specifications of the IS and getting a BIS CRS registration, mandatory for USB Type External Hard Disk Drive to sell in the Indian market, is a regulatory requirement for businesses.

What happens if you sell without a BIS registration in India? Read here in detail. 

EPR Certification for USB Type External HDDs

USB Type External Hard Disk Drives (HDDs) fall under the EPR framework for e-waste as they are classified as electrical and electronic equipment. Producers as well as importers must obtain EPR registration from the CPCB and ensure the proper collection, channelization, recycling, and environmentally sound disposal of these products at the end of their life cycle. USB Type External HDDs are generally covered under the EEE category ITEW27. Therefore, EPR registration, mandatory for USB Type External Hard Disk Drives (HDDs) to sell in India, is an essential compliance requirement for manufacturers, importers, and brand owners.

What will happen if you sell these without an EPR license in India? Read here.

How to get the Certification for USB Type External HDDs in India?

1. BIS CRS Registration

Essential Documents for a BIS CRS License for USB Type External HDDs

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has prescribed a list of documents that must be well-read and understood by applicants. The list of documents as mentioned and specified must be furnished to the authorities:

1. Trademark / Brand Registration Certificate
2. Factory Address Proof
3. Product Test Report (BIS-approved lab)
4. PCB Layout & Critical Component List (CCL)
5. Product User Manual
6. AIR Appointment Letter (for foreign manufacturers)

Note: You can appoint Brand Liaison as your AIR

Process for BIS Registration for USB Type External HDDs

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has prescribed a dedicated format by which manufacturers and importers of all IT and Electronic products can easily apply for and gain a BIS registration. Have a look at the detailed process of acquiring a BIS CRS License:

1. Prepare Documents
2. Test Product
3. Apply Online
4. Grant of BIS CRS Registration 

2. EPR for Electronics

Documents for EPR License for USB Type External HDDs

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has specified a list of documents that must be thoroughly reviewed and submitted by applicants who are seeking EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility) certification for e-waste management. Review the list of essential documents required for obtaining EPR registration:

1. Basic documents related to the Firm / Company
2. Details of the authorised signatory
3. Product details and specifications
4. Plans and flowcharts for the collection and recycling of Electronics
5. CTE/CTO consents, Agreement copies 

Process to Get the EPR Certificate for USB Type External HDDs

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has outlined a dedicated format through which manufacturers and importers of Electrical and Electronic Equipment (EEE) can apply for and obtain EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility) certification for e-waste management. Here's a detailed overview of the process for acquiring an EPR Registration Certificate:

1. Prepare documents
2. Submit application
3. Review and verification
4. Grant of Certification

CRS Certification Guidelines For Indian Manufacturers

• Ensure the product is under the BIS CRS Mandatory List and tested by a BIS-recognized lab.
• Prepare required documents and use the R-Number mark only after approval.
• Professional assistance can help simplify the process.

CRS Certification Guidelines For Foreign Manufacturers

• Appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) as required by BIS.
• Get product testing done in a BIS-recognized lab in India and prepare documents.
• Submit the application through AIR for approval.

Need complete knowledge about the certification? Click to view the complete guidebook. 

CRS Certification Guidelines For Indian Importers

• Importers cannot apply directly; only manufacturers are eligible for BIS CRS.
• Obtain and maintain the BIS license copy from the manufacturer.
• Can act as AIR if authorized by the manufacturer.

CRS Certification Guidelines For Traders/Distributors

• Not eligible to apply directly; certification must be done by the manufacturer.
• Keep a copy of the BIS license for compliance.
• Can act as AIR if authorized.

CRS Certification Guidelines For Online Sellers

• Not eligible to apply directly; certification must be done by the manufacturer.
• Obtain a BIS license copy from the manufacturer for compliance.
• Ensure certification before listing products online.

Visit here to check your eligibility for USB-type external HDDs for the Indian market now! 

Guidelines for EPR Certification for USB Type External HDDs

For Producers (Importers)

• Must obtain mandatory EPR registration from the Central Pollution Control Board before selling or importing products.
• Fulfill e-waste collection and recycling targets as per CPCB norms.
• Ensure compliance through authorized recyclers and maintain records with annual return filing.

For Recyclers

• Must have authorization from CPCB/SPCB to operate.
• Follow E-Waste Management Rules and CPCB guidelines for recycling.
• Issue recycling certificates and maintain records with annual returns.

For Refurbishers

• Registration and authorization from CPCB/SPCB are mandatory.
• Carry out refurbishing as per E-Waste Management Rules and CPCB guidelines.
• Maintain records and file annual returns on the CPCB portal.

For Manufacturers

• EPR registration on the CPCB portal is mandatory before manufacturing.
• Meet e-waste collection and recycling targets set by CPCB.
• Ensure compliance through authorized recyclers and maintain records with annual filings.

Brand Liaison: End-to-End Assistance for Certification and Compliance

There are many ways in which Brand Liaison, as one of the most trusted and well-known BIS CRS consultants, is helping businesses to seamlessly obtain the necessary certifications and manage compliance in the Indian market. Let us understand why businesses, not just domestically but also internationally, are trusting Brand Liaison:

• Trusted and reliable solutions for every business.
• Customised compliance options for businesses to facilitate easy certifications.
• Budget-friendly compliance management to ensure cost-effectiveness.
• Expert and professional advice to guide you at each step.
• Experienced consultancy to help you stay ahead in the market.

Get in touch with Brand Liaison and ensure that your products meet the mandatory BIS registration in a smooth and easy manner. Our team will help your business to stay ahead and be legally compliant in the Indian economy.