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BIS Certification Consultancy for Cold Rolled Steel Strips (Box Strappings) | IS 5872:1990 | Qualitance India

BIS Certification Consultancy for Cold Rolled Steel Strips (Box Strappings) | IS 5872:1990 | Qualitance India

Introduction

Cold rolled steel strips, commonly known as box strappings or steel strapping for packaging, are used to secure, bundle and transport goods across manufacturing, warehousing, logistics and industrial packaging sectors. These products require suitable tensile strength, dimensional accuracy, bending performance and surface quality to ensure dependable performance during use. The earlier Indian Standard for this product was IS 5872:1990 – Cold Rolled Steel Strips (Box Strappings). BIS revised this standard to IS 5872:2025 – Steel Strapping for Packaging. The revised standard was published on 22 May 2025, and BIS specified 22 August 2025 as the last date for implementation of the new edition, after which the earlier edition stood withdrawn. <Cite refs={["turn267270search17","turn267270search20","turn267270search21"]}/> Manufacturers looking for BIS certification consultancy should therefore consider both the revised technical requirements and the latest regulatory position under the Ministry of Steel's Quality Control Order (QCO). Qualitance India assists manufacturers with product-standard applicability reviews, documentation, testing coordination and preparation for the relevant BIS certification process.

What Is IS 5872?

IS 5872 is the Indian Standard covering steel strapping for packaging, also commonly called box strapping. The earlier edition, IS 5872:1990, covered three grades of cold rolled steel strips for general packaging purposes. The revised IS 5872:2025 is titled Steel Strapping for Packaging. <Cite refs={["turn267270search18","turn267270search20","turn267270search22"]}/> Steel strapping is commonly used for:
  • Bundling steel products and industrial materials.
  • Securing heavy packages for transportation.
  • Packaging manufactured goods for storage and dispatch.
  • Holding bundles together during handling and logistics.
  • Applications where steel strapping is selected for its strength and mechanical performance.
The grade, dimensions, surface finish and other product characteristics should be selected according to the intended application and the applicable standard.

Important Update: IS 5872:1990 Revised to IS 5872:2025

Manufacturers should be aware that IS 5872:1990 is no longer the current edition of the product standard.
Particular Details
Earlier standard IS 5872:1990
Earlier title Cold Rolled Steel Strips (Box Strappings)
Revised standard IS 5872:2025
Revised title Steel Strapping for Packaging
Revision implementation date 22 August 2025
Current BIS product manual PM/5872/2, June 2025
The revised standard introduces several technical changes, including a new Grade 4, additional requirements for shape tolerances, changes to reverse bend testing, provisions for weld joint strength and new or updated dimensional requirements. <Cite refs={["turn267270search17","turn267270search20"]}/> For manufacturers preparing a new application or reviewing an existing certification, the current standard and product manual should be used to identify applicable requirements.

BIS Certification and Quality Control Order Applicability

BIS certification is generally voluntary unless the Central Government makes compliance compulsory for a product through a Quality Control Order. Where a QCO applies, manufacturers must follow its requirements and any applicable exemptions or implementation provisions. <Cite refs={["turn267270search2"]}/> The Ministry of Steel's Steel and Steel Products (Quality Control) Order, 2024 included an entry for IS 5872:1990, covering the specified steel-strapping product category and associated tariff codes. <Cite refs={["turn267270search19"]}/> On 21 November 2025, the Ministry of Steel announced the suspension of enforcement for a group of Indian Standards under the steel QCO framework, including 42 standards for a period of three years. The 2025 amendment is relevant to understanding the enforcement position for the listed IS 5872:1990 entry. <Cite refs={["turn267270search0"]}/> Important regulatory distinction: Withdrawal of IS 5872:1990 as a technical standard and suspension or deferral of a QCO entry are separate matters. Manufacturers should not assume that a deferred QCO enforcement date reinstates the withdrawn standard as the current technical edition. Before manufacturing, importing or supplying products, verify the latest Ministry of Steel notifications, the applicable product description, the relevant tariff codes and any exemptions or subsequent amendments. Official reference: Ministry of Steel – Quality Control Orders.

Key Technical Requirements Under IS 5872:2025

The current product manual identifies the principal testing and quality-control areas for steel strapping for packaging. The exact requirements and acceptance limits must be confirmed from the complete standard and applicable product manual. <Cite refs={["turn267270search20"]}/>

1. Chemical Composition

The chemical composition of steel must comply with the requirements for the applicable grade. Chemical analysis is used to establish whether the material meets the specified composition limits. Depending on the grade, the relevant elements and limits must be checked against the applicable tables in IS 5872:2025. Manufacturers should maintain appropriate material identification and chemical test records.

2. Tensile Properties

Tensile testing assesses the mechanical properties of the steel strapping under specified loading conditions. Relevant properties and acceptance criteria depend on the selected grade and the requirements of the current standard. Test results should be documented and traceable to the applicable production batch or control unit.

3. Reverse Bend Test

The reverse bend test evaluates the ability of the strip to withstand repeated bending. BIS's implementation guidelines identify a change in the reverse bend test procedure in IS 5872:2025. The revised standard specifies the test procedure and the corresponding number of bends to failure for the specified nominal thicknesses. <Cite refs={["turn267270search17"]}/> Manufacturers should use the current procedure rather than relying solely on the method referenced in the 1990 edition.

4. Dimensions and Dimensional Tolerances

Steel strapping must comply with the applicable dimensional requirements, including thickness and width. The revised standard adds thickness-tolerance requirements for thicknesses greater than 1.20 mm. <Cite refs={["turn267270search17"]}/> Manufacturers should establish suitable measurement and inspection arrangements for the dimensions covered by their proposed product range.

5. Shape Tolerances

The revised standard introduces requirements for shape tolerances, including camber, flatness and twist, together with the applicable test methods. <Cite refs={["turn267270search17"]}/> These requirements should be considered in production inspection and finished-product acceptance procedures.

6. Weld Joint Strength

A new clause addressing weld joint strength was introduced in the revised standard. <Cite refs={["turn267270search17"]}/> Manufacturers should review the applicable requirements and determine how the provision affects their production process and verification arrangements.

7. Surface Finish and Freedom from Defects

Surface quality is important for the handling and performance of steel strapping. The BIS product manual specifies that surface finish and freedom from defects are to be assessed at the factory on the full-width strip from which independent test samples are drawn. <Cite refs={["turn267270search20"]}/> The assessment should follow the acceptance criteria specified in the applicable standard.

8. Corrosion Resistance

Corrosion resistance is another testing area identified in the revised product manual. The manual references IS 5528 for the applicable test method and indicates provisions for subcontracting this test under specified conditions. <Cite refs={["turn267270search20"]}/> The test method and acceptance requirements should be confirmed from the current standard and product manual.

Sample Requirements for BIS Certification

The June 2025 BIS product manual for IS 5872:2025 specifies the following sample quantities. <Cite refs={["turn267270search20"]}/>
Test category Sample quantity
Physical tests 2.5 m length
Chemical tests Five test pieces of 50 mm × 50 mm each, or 50 g of drillings
The product manual also identifies factory assessment of surface finish and freedom from defects on the full-width strip from which the independent samples are taken. These quantities relate to the revised product manual. Manufacturers should confirm the current sampling instructions before preparing or dispatching samples for testing.

Scope of BIS Licence for Steel Strapping for Packaging

The proposed scope of a BIS licence should clearly describe the product range the manufacturer intends to cover. The current product manual identifies relevant scope parameters including nominal dimensions, grade, presence or absence of micro-alloying elements and surface finish. <Cite refs={["turn267270search20"]}/>

1. Nominal Width and Thickness

The manufacturer should identify the intended width and thickness ranges and ensure that the proposed scope reflects the actual manufacturing capability.

2. Grade

The applicable steel grade must be specified in accordance with IS 5872:2025. The revised edition introduces Grade 4, with its chemical composition and physical properties specified in the standard. <Cite refs={["turn267270search17"]}/>

3. Micro-Alloying Elements

The proposed scope should address the presence or absence of micro-alloying elements, as applicable to the product.

4. Surface Finish

The surface finish covered by the licence should be clearly identified, with appropriate testing and manufacturing controls available for the selected product. A manufacturer should not assume that approval for one grade, dimension or finish automatically covers all other products.

Product Grouping and Sample Selection

The BIS product manual provides grouping guidelines in Annex A. These guidelines should be used when deciding the product samples required to support the proposed licence scope. <Cite refs={["turn267270search20"]}/> Before finalising the scope, manufacturers should identify:
  • The grades they intend to manufacture.
  • The nominal widths and thicknesses.
  • The applicable surface finishes.
  • Whether micro-alloying elements are present.
  • The relevant sample-selection and grouping rules.
  • Any additional testing required for the proposed scope.
Grouping should follow the current product manual. It should not be assumed merely because two products have similar dimensions or are sold under the same commercial description.

Manufacturing Facility and Quality-Control Requirements

Manufacturers should establish and maintain suitable production and quality-control arrangements to ensure consistent conformity with the applicable standard. The current BIS product manual includes a Scheme of Inspection and Testing and guidance on quality assurance and testing arrangements. <Cite refs={["turn267270search20"]}/> Preparation should cover the following areas:
  • Documented manufacturing and inspection procedures.
  • Appropriate testing and measurement equipment.
  • Chemical and mechanical testing arrangements.
  • Calibration and maintenance records for relevant equipment.
  • Raw-material and finished-product identification.
  • Production and inspection records.
  • Control of nonconforming products.
  • Surface-finish and dimensional inspection.
  • Routine testing and quality-assurance planning.
  • Records of subcontracted tests, where applicable.
The product manual also addresses quality assurance planning, routine testing and certain provisions for subcontracted testing. Manufacturers should review the detailed clauses to determine which requirements apply to their facilities and product range. <Cite refs={["turn267270search20"]}/>

Documents Required for BIS Certification

The exact documentation depends on the applicant's manufacturing arrangement, proposed product scope and applicable BIS procedure. The following is an indicative preparation checklist.

Company and Factory Documents

  • Company registration or constitution documents.
  • Factory address and contact information.
  • Details of the authorised signatory.
  • Manufacturing process flow.
  • Details of production machinery and facilities.
  • Details of quality-control personnel.

Product and Technical Documents

  • Product description and intended application.
  • Proposed grades and dimensions.
  • Details of surface finish.
  • Information on micro-alloying elements, where applicable.
  • Manufacturing and inspection procedures.
  • Details of testing equipment and facilities.
  • Relevant calibration and maintenance records.
  • Available chemical and mechanical test reports.

Quality-Control Documents

  • Quality assurance plan.
  • Routine inspection and testing procedures.
  • Production and batch traceability records.
  • Inspection and test reports.
  • Nonconformity and corrective-action procedures.
  • Records of subcontracted testing, where applicable.

Application-Related Documents

  • Prescribed BIS application forms and declarations.
  • Required undertakings and supporting documents.
  • Applicable fees and payment details.
  • Additional documents requested during application scrutiny or factory assessment.
This checklist is indicative and should be finalised against the current BIS application requirements and product-specific instructions.

BIS Certification Process for Steel Strapping for Packaging

Step 1: Verify the Applicable Standard and QCO

Review IS 5872:2025, the current BIS product manual, the Ministry of Steel's QCO and any applicable amendments or exemptions.

Step 2: Define the Product Scope

Identify the intended grades, dimensions, surface finishes and other relevant product parameters.

Step 3: Assess Manufacturing Readiness

Review production facilities, quality-control procedures, testing arrangements, equipment and available records.

Step 4: Prepare the Application Documents

Compile the prescribed company information, product details, quality documentation and supporting technical records.

Step 5: Arrange Sample Testing

Plan sample selection and testing in accordance with the current product manual and BIS instructions.

Step 6: Prepare for Factory Assessment

Where required under the applicable certification procedure, prepare the manufacturing facility, test arrangements and quality records for assessment.

Step 7: Address Technical Observations

Respond to any observations raised during document scrutiny, testing or factory assessment.

Step 8: Licence Decision

BIS evaluates the application and supporting compliance evidence before deciding whether to grant a licence. Certification should only be represented as approved after formal issuance by BIS. The actual process and timeline depend on the applicable procedure, completeness of documentation, testing results and any observations raised during assessment.

Common Challenges Faced by Manufacturers

Manufacturers may encounter delays or additional work when:
  • They rely on the withdrawn IS 5872:1990 edition without reviewing IS 5872:2025.
  • They use outdated sample quantities or test procedures.
  • The proposed product grades or dimensions are unclear.
  • Grouping requirements are misunderstood.
  • Testing facilities or calibration records are insufficient.
  • Quality-control procedures do not address the applicable routine tests.
  • Dimensional and shape tolerances are not adequately controlled.
  • The current QCO amendments and enforcement provisions have not been reviewed.
A preliminary compliance review can help identify these issues before proceeding with an application.

Why Choose Qualitance India for BIS Certification Consultancy?

Qualitance India provides consultancy support for manufacturers seeking BIS certification and product-compliance assistance. Our support for steel strapping and box strapping products may include:
  • Review of the applicable Indian Standard and QCO.
  • Guidance on the transition from IS 5872:1990 to IS 5872:2025.
  • Assessment of proposed grades and licence scope.
  • Documentation and application preparation support.
  • Review of testing and quality-control arrangements.
  • Guidance on sample planning and testing coordination.
  • Preparation support for factory assessment.
  • Assistance in responding to technical and documentation observations.
  • Guidance on product inclusion and licence-scope changes, where applicable.
Our objective is to help manufacturers understand the relevant requirements, organise their compliance activities and prepare for the applicable certification process. Consultancy support does not guarantee licence approval. The final certification decision rests with BIS.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is IS 5872:1990?

IS 5872:1990 was titled Cold Rolled Steel Strips (Box Strappings) and covered steel strips for general packaging purposes. BIS revised it to IS 5872:2025, titled Steel Strapping for Packaging. <Cite refs={["turn267270search18","turn267270search20"]}/>

2. Which is the latest standard for steel strapping for packaging?

The revised standard is IS 5872:2025. BIS specified 22 August 2025 as the last date for implementation of the revised edition, after which IS 5872:1990 stood withdrawn. <Cite refs={["turn267270search17","turn267270search21"]}/>

3. Is BIS certification mandatory for box strappings?

The legal requirement must be assessed against the applicable Quality Control Order and its amendments. The Ministry of Steel announced a three-year suspension of enforcement for 42 listed standards under the 2025 amendment. Manufacturers should verify the current entry, applicable product coverage and any later amendments before deciding their compliance obligations. <Cite refs={["turn267270search0","turn267270search5"]}/>

4. What sample quantity is specified in the current product manual?

The June 2025 product manual specifies a 2.5 m length for physical tests and five 50 mm × 50 mm test pieces, or 50 g of drillings, for chemical tests. <Cite refs={["turn267270search20"]}/>

5. What are the main tests for steel strapping?

The relevant requirements include chemical composition, tensile properties, reverse bend testing, dimensional and shape tolerances, surface finish, freedom from defects and corrosion resistance. The complete standard determines the specific acceptance criteria. <Cite refs={["turn267270search17","turn267270search20"]}/>

6. What parameters are included in the BIS licence scope?

The current product manual identifies nominal dimensions, grade, presence or absence of micro-alloying elements and surface finish as relevant parameters. <Cite refs={["turn267270search20"]}/>

7. Can Qualitance India assist with BIS certification?

Yes. Qualitance India can provide guidance on standard applicability, documentation, product-scope planning, sample preparation, testing coordination and preparation for the applicable certification process.

Official References

  1. BIS Product Manual for IS 5872:2025 – Steel Strapping for Packaging https://www.bis.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Revised-PM-IS-5872-Final.pdf
  2. BIS Implementation Guidelines for Revised IS 5872:2025 https://www.services.bis.gov.in/tmp/Circular_wJUZ_2025-06-09.pdf
  3. Earlier BIS Product Manual for IS 5872:1990 https://www.bis.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/PM_IS_5872.pdf
  4. Ministry of Steel – Quality Control Orders https://steel.gov.in/quality-control-orders
  5. BIS – Products Under Compulsory Certification https://www.bis.gov.in/product-certification/products-under-compulsory-certification/?lang=en
  6. BIS – Product Manuals Directory https://www.bis.gov.in/product-certification/product-specific-information-2/product-manuals/?lang=en
Manufacturers should verify the latest standard, product manual, QCO amendments and applicable exemptions before proceeding with certification.

Get BIS Certification Consultancy for Steel Strapping for Packaging

Are you manufacturing cold rolled steel strips, box strappings or steel strapping for packaging? Qualitance India can help you assess the applicable requirements, understand the transition to IS 5872:2025 and prepare for the relevant certification process. Qualitance India – Improving Quality & Competence Contact Qualitance India to discuss your product scope, testing requirements and BIS certification consultancy needs.

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