Importing empty hard gelatin capsules from India is straightforward once you know the steps. This guide walks through the process from writing your specification to receiving the shipment, and highlights the points where buyers most often run into delays.
The short answer
Agree a clear specification, test samples, check the supplier's certificates, confirm your country's import rules for gelatin products, agree Incoterms and payment, and make sure the shipment travels with a CoA and the right documents. On arrival, check batch numbers and keep capsules sealed in a controlled store.
Step by step
1. Write your specification
Capsule size, cap and body colours or shade codes, finish, printing if needed, quantity and the pharmacopoeia you test against. Our size chart helps you choose the size.
2. Choose and qualify a supplier
Check certificates, ask for a sample certificate of analysis and specification, and visit or audit if your quality system requires it. See how to choose a capsule supplier.
3. Test samples
Run samples on your own filling line at normal speed and check dimensions, moisture and disintegration.
4. Check your import rules
Many countries have rules for products of animal origin such as gelatin. You may need a TSE/BSE-free statement, a certificate of origin or an import permit. Confirm the requirements with your customs agent or regulator before you order.
5. Agree commercial terms
Price, minimum order, lead time, payment terms and the Incoterm, which defines who pays for and takes risk on each part of the journey.
6. Ship and clear customs
Sea freight suits large regular orders; air freight suits urgent or smaller ones. Make sure the invoice, packing list, CoA and certificate of origin match the shipment.
7. Receive and release
Check carton labels and batch numbers against the CoA, inspect for damage, and store the capsules sealed at 15 to 25 °C and 35 to 65 percent relative humidity.
Common Incoterms for capsule imports
| Term | What it means in practice |
|---|---|
| EXW (Ex Works) | You collect from the factory and handle all transport and export clearance |
| FOB (Free On Board) | The supplier delivers the goods on board the vessel at the Indian port; you pay sea freight onwards |
| CIF (Cost, Insurance and Freight) | The supplier pays freight and insurance to your destination port; you handle import clearance |
Read more about export packaging and labelling and why buyers choose an empty capsule exporter from India.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a licence to import empty gelatin capsules?
It depends on your country. Many regulate products of animal origin. Check with your customs agent or regulator before ordering.
How long does shipping from India take?
It depends on the destination and whether you ship by sea or air. Your supplier and freight forwarder can give a schedule for your route.
Which documents should I ask for?
Commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of analysis for each batch, certificate of origin, and any certificates your market requires.
Can I test capsules before importing in bulk?
Yes. Universe Capsules supplies samples so you can test them on your own line first.
Importing capsules from India?
Tell us your specification, quantity and destination. We will send samples and a quotation with lead time.
Request a quote
