7 Myths About BIS Certification for Cabinet Hinges (IS 18297:2023) You Should Stop Believing
Author : Evtl India | Published On : 22 Oct 2026
Cabinet hinges are small, so many people think the rules around them are small too. That is a costly mistake. Since 2023, hinges in India must follow a fixed quality standard. Still, many makers, dealers and importers believe things that are simply not true. Let us clear the most common ones.
Myth 1: “Hinges are too small to need a quality mark.”
Fact: Size does not matter. A hinge carries the weight of a full cabinet door and opens thousands of times in its life. A weak one can rust, loosen or break and hurt someone. That is why the Government made BIS Certification for Cabinet hinges compulsory under the Hinges (Quality Control) Order, 2023. The rule follows the Indian Standard IS 18297:2023.
Myth 2: “Only big factories need it.”
Fact: The rule is not about factory size. It is about the product. Whether you run a small unit or a large plant, if you make cabinet hinges for the Indian market, you need a licence. Only the yearly fee changes by size. Micro and small units pay less, as BIS gives them concessions.
Myth 3: “If I only trade or sell, I do not need to worry.”
Fact: Dealers and shop owners also have a role. Selling hinges without the ISI mark can lead to penalties and seizure of stock. Even if you are not the maker, ask your supplier for the ISI mark and the CM/L licence number.
Myth 4: “Foreign hinges can come in without BIS.”
Fact: Imported hinges must come from a factory that holds a valid BIS licence. A foreign maker must also name an Indian representative. Without this, goods may be stopped at the port.
Myth 5: “The mark is just a sticker, so it is easy.”
Fact: The mark is not a sticker you buy. It is the result of a full process. BIS ISI Mark Certification for Cabinet hinges includes these steps:
- Checking the product against the standard
- Preparing documents and a quality plan
- Testing samples in a BIS-recognised lab
- Applying on the BIS online portal
- Passing a factory inspection
- Getting the licence and using the mark correctly
You cannot skip any step.
Myth 6: “Any product with a hinge is covered.”
Fact: The standard has a clear limit. The BIS Scope For Cabinet hinges covers the material, type, dimensions, finish and working performance of cabinet hinges. Other hinge types, such as steel butt hinges, tee and strap hinges or piano hinges, follow their own separate standards. Many people waste money testing against the wrong standard, so always confirm your product first.
Myth 7: “I must do everything myself, or hire nobody.”
Fact: You can apply on your own. But the process has many small steps, and one mistake can mean a repeat test or a delay of several weeks. That is why many first-time applicants choose a BIS ISI Mark Consultant for Cabinet hinges. A good consultant checks your product, prepares documents, guides you on testing and gets you ready for the factory visit.
Quick Summary: Myth vs Fact
| Myth | Fact |
|---|---|
| Hinges are too small for rules | Safety matters at any size |
| Only big factories need it | Every maker needs it |
| Sellers need not worry | Dealers must sell only marked hinges |
| Imports are exempt | Foreign factories need a licence |
| The mark is a sticker | It is a full process |
| Every hinge is covered | Each hinge type has its own standard |
| Consultants are unnecessary | They save time and avoid mistakes |
How Long Does It Really Take?
For Indian factories, BIS targets around 30 days when you apply with a recent lab report, and around 90 days under the normal procedure. Foreign factories usually take about 6 months. Delays mostly happen because of incomplete documents, a failed test or a late inspection.
What Will Be Tested?
BIS checks the hinge from raw material to final finish:
- Size and dimensions
- Workmanship and joints
- Smooth opening and closing
- Strength under extra load
- Rust resistance
- Finish of the coating
- Raw material quality
Usually, 8 sets of hinges are needed for testing. Fees can change, so always check the latest on the BIS website before applying.
Conclusion
EVTL India is one of the leading BIS Consultant in India, helping manufacturers obtain their BIS licenses hassle-free. From checking your product against IS 18297:2023 to preparing documents, arranging tests and standing with you during the BIS inspection, our team explains every step in simple language.
If you make, import or sell cabinet hinges, do not rely on myths. Check the facts, certify early and sell with confidence.
Contact EVTL India:
📞 +91 95609 35898
📧 [email protected]
🌐 www.evtlindia.com
FAQs
1. Is BIS certification compulsory for cabinet hinges?
Yes. Cabinet hinges must follow IS 18297:2023 and carry the ISI mark.
2. Do small factories need a licence?
Yes. Small and micro units also need it, but they get fee concessions.
3. How many samples are needed for testing?
Usually 8 sets.
4. How long does the licence take?
About 30 to 90 days for Indian factories and around 6 months for foreign factories.
5. Can one licence cover all hinge types?
No. Each product standard needs its own licence.
