Both lead to a BIS mark, but the process, audit requirements and timelines are very different. A quick way to tell them apart.
Two schemes, two approaches
The ISI Mark is a product certification licence. BIS assesses your manufacturing facility and quality controls, and your product is tested before and during the licence period. It is common for products such as certain electrical goods, building materials and consumer items.
CRS works on registration. The product is tested at a recognised lab and, once registered, is marked with the registration number. It covers a notified list of electronics and IT products.
What changes for you in practice
Under ISI, expect a factory inspection and ongoing surveillance. Under CRS, the focus is on laboratory testing and documentation. The scheme your product belongs to decides how much preparation your plant, your quality team and your paperwork need.
- ISI: factory audit, in-house testing capability, periodic surveillance
- CRS: lab testing, documentation, registration number on the product
- Both: marking rules and renewals must be followed after approval
How to find the right one
The applicable scheme depends on the product category and its notified standard, not on the company size or where it is made. If you are unsure, a short review of the product description and intended use is usually enough to confirm the route before you commit to testing.
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