Importing Goods from India to Spain

Importing Goods from India to Spain has become a key opportunity for companies seeking competitive products, a wide variety of suppliers and custom manufacturing options.

However, the success of any international operation depends on understanding the process, anticipating barriers and complying with all customs formalities.

At Mediterránea Forwarding, as freight forwarders and experts in the import and export of goods, we import from India for clients who require documentary precision, logistical coordination and efficient customs clearance management.

And we know that, although India offers great opportunities, the process requires technical knowledge to avoid delays, cost overruns or border blockages.

That is why we have prepared this guide, where you will find step-by-step instructions on how to import products from India to the United Kingdom, what documentation you need, how to calculate costs and what you need to take into account to ensure that your goods arrive without incident.

Context of trade between India and Spain

Trade relations between India and Spain have grown steadily over the last decade.

India is a strategic market for the European Union due to its production capacity, variety of industries and cost competitiveness.

Indian industry stands out for its flexibility, its capacity to manufacture high volumes and its specialisation in sectors such as textiles, metallurgy, chemicals, crafts, light machinery and industrial components.

This has prompted more Spanish companies to seek suppliers in India to diversify their supply chains.

However, working with India requires an understanding of its internal processes, regulations and timelines, as well as precise coordination of international logistics.

What types of goods can be imported from India to Spain?

The type of goods that can be imported from India to Spain depends on European Union regulations. In general, the following can be imported:

• Unrestricted goods (textiles, industrial components, etc.)
• Goods subject to controls (cosmetics, industrial components, etc.)
• Goods regulated by special certificates (wood, chemicals, etc.)

Before starting any operation, it is essential to check what type of product you are going to import and what specific requirements the EU has.

What products are imported?

The most common products imported from India to Spain include:

• Textiles, fashion and accessories
• Jewellery and costume jewellery
• Chemicals and pharmaceuticals
• Light machinery and industrial components
• Decorative items and handicrafts
• Metal materials and tools
• Processed agricultural and food products

The variety of sectors makes India an attractive destination for both small businesses and large importers.

Steps for importing from India to Spain

Importing products from India to Spain may seem complex, but following a structured process can significantly reduce the risk of delays, errors, or unexpected costs.

Below, we explain each phase in detail.

1. Researching suppliers in India

The first step is to identify and evaluate reliable suppliers.

India has a wide variety of manufacturers and exporters, so it is essential to conduct a thorough analysis to ensure that they meet your quality standards and delivery times.

Among the most important aspects to consider are:

• Certifications: verify that the supplier has quality certifications and international standards (ISO, CE, FDA, etc.).
• Business history: consult references and opinions from other customers to gauge their reputation and solvency.
• Production capacity: ensure that they can meet your volumes without compromising delivery times.
• Regulatory compliance: check that the products comply with European Union standards and specific regulations in the United Kingdom.
• Delivery terms (Incoterms): clearly define the responsibilities of the supplier and those of the importer.

If possible, conducting virtual visits or external audits allows you to see the facilities and manufacturing processes first-hand, minimising the risk of non-compliance.

2. Selecting the type of goods and negotiating

Once you have selected a supplier, it is time to specify the type of goods to be imported and agree on the commercial terms. This includes:

• Quantities: determine purchase volumes according to your needs and logistical capacity.
• Materials and technical specifications: ensure that they comply with European standards and the end customer’s expectations.
• Exact product quality: define tolerance levels and acceptance parameters to avoid surprises when receiving the goods.
• Manufacturing and delivery times: set clear dates for production, shipment and arrival in the UK.

During this phase, it is also essential to calculate costs, including the price of the product, international transport, insurance and customs duties. In addition, defining the appropriate Incoterm helps to clarify responsibilities and avoid conflicts.

3. Preparing the necessary documentation

One of the most critical steps in importing from India is having all the documentation in order.

Good documentary preparation avoids delays in customs clearance and ensures the safe transit of goods. The most important documents include:

• Commercial invoice: this must reflect the actual value of the goods, the supplier and the buyer, as well as the terms of sale.
• Packing list: a detailed list of all products, including quantities, measurements and weight of each unit.
• Certificate of origin: mandatory for certain types of products, it confirms the country of manufacture and may affect tariffs and taxes.
• Transport documents: BL (Bill of Lading) for sea transport or AWB (Air Waybill) for air transport.
• Additional permits or certificates: some products, such as food, chemicals or machinery, require special certificates or prior inspections.

It is advisable to review each document several times and, if possible, work with an experienced customs agent, who can ensure that everything is correctly presented and minimise the risk of detention or penalties.

4. Choosing the best method of transport

Once you have defined the supplier, the type of goods and all the necessary documentation, it is essential to select the most suitable transport for your shipment. The choice has a direct impact on delivery times, costs and the safety of the goods.

The most common options include:

• Air transport: ideal for high-value, time-sensitive or perishable products. It significantly reduces delivery times, although it is usually more expensive.
• Sea freight: recommended for large volumes or heavy goods. It is more economical, but requires advance planning of transit times and port stops.
• Multimodal transport: combines different modes of transport (sea, air and land) to optimise times and costs according to the needs of the shipment.

When choosing the method of transport, it is important to consider:

• Type of product: some require special conditions, such as refrigeration or delicate handling.
• Delivery times: clearly define the times with your supplier and logistics operator.
• Costs: calculate freight, insurance, temporary storage and possible additional fees.
• Security and tracking: select options that allow you to monitor the goods and have adequate insurance.

Customs procedures in Spain

Now it is time to handle customs procedures in Spain. This stage is key to ensuring that goods from India arrive without a hitch and avoids delays, additional costs or legal problems.

Although procedures may vary depending on the type of product, the most common steps include:

• Submission of the customs declaration, detailing the products, their value and origin.
• Review of the documentation by the authorities, verifying that all the information matches what has been declared.
• Payment of VAT and customs duties, where applicable, depending on the type of goods and European Union trade agreements.
• Physical or documentary control of the goods, which may involve selective inspections to ensure regulatory compliance.

To minimise risks and speed up customs clearance, it is essential to have a customs agent with experience in imports from India.

How to avoid delays in importation?

Although following the above steps significantly reduces problems, there are always factors that can cause delays in importing goods from India.

To minimise risks, it is advisable to pay attention to the following aspects:

• Complete and correct documentation: missing invoices, packing lists or certificates can delay customs clearance. It is essential to check each document before shipping.
• Logistical planning: coordinate manufacturing, transport and arrival times in the Spain.