What is the Transfer of Residence (TR) duty exemption?−
India's Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) Transfer of Residence facility allows returning NRIs to import personal effects and household goods duty-free. Conditions: items must have been owned and used abroad for 12+ months, you must be returning after 2+ years abroad, and you must not have used the TR facility in the preceding 3 years.
What documents are needed for the TR exemption?+
Valid Indian passport with visa/residence history showing 2+ years abroad, detailed itemised packing list with declared values, TR application declaration. CBIC may also require employment letters or tax returns for the period abroad. We advise on your specific documentation requirements at booking.
Can I ship to Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai or Bangalore?+
Yes ā we ship to all four major India gateways. Mumbai (BOM) handles the highest volume of NRI personal effects. Delhi (IGI) serves North India. Chennai (MAA) and Bangalore (BLR) are available for South India destinations. TR exemption applies at all four airports ā call us for the right routing for your specific Indian destination.
What happens if I've already used the TR exemption in the past 3 years?+
If you have already availed the TR facility in the preceding 3 years, you cannot use it again. Your shipment will be assessed at standard CBIC import duty rates. We advise on your specific situation at booking ā there are still ways to minimise duty through accurate declaration of used personal goods.
How long does shipping to India take from the UK?+
Air freight from UK door to Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai or Bangalore takes 5ā9 working days from collection, subject to space and flight availability with the carriers. Allow additional time for CBIC customs clearance. With correct TR documentation, clearance is typically efficient.
Can I include new goods in a TR shipment?+
New goods in original packaging are assessed at full CBIC import duty rates even within a TR shipment. TR exemption applies to used personal goods owned for 12+ months. We strongly advise against including new goods in a TR shipment ā declare them separately if you must bring them.