GST on Packers and Movers in India: 5% or 18%?
Understanding GST on packers and movers in India is simpler than it looks — once you know what drives the rate.
GST does not apply just to the truck that moves your goods. It applies to the entire scope of services the mover provides — just like other packing moving charges factors that affect your final bill. The rate is not fixed at a single number. It shifts based on what is included in the service package.
Most of the confusion comes down to two rates: 5% and 18%. Knowing which one applies to your move can directly affect your final bill.
Why Do Packers and Movers Charge Different GST Rates?
Not all movers offer the same service. Some only transport your goods from one location to another. Others handle everything — packing, loading, transit, unloading, and sometimes even unpacking.
GST law treats these as different categories of service. A transport-only service falls under GST on household goods transportation rules, while a full-service relocation is treated as a bundled or composite supply. Different categories attract different tax rates — which is why two movers can quote different GST percentages for what appears to be the same job.
5% GST on Packers and Movers – When It Applies
The 5% GST on packers and movers applies when the service is limited to transporting household goods. No packing, no unloading assistance — just moving goods from Point A to Point B.
This rate is common for individual house shifting services where the customer handles packing themselves and the mover only provides a vehicle and driver.
₹30,000 (transport charges) + 5% GST = ₹31,500 total payable
18% GST on Packers and Movers – When It Applies
The 18% GST on packers and movers applies when the service includes packing, loading, transportation, and unloading — all under one contract.
This is the standard rate for GST on relocation services that are full-service in nature — including corporate moves, office shifting, and premium household relocations.
5% vs 18% GST on Packers and Movers – Quick Comparison
| Factor | 5% GST | 18% GST |
|---|---|---|
| Service Type | Transport only | Full-service relocation |
| Packing Included | ✗ No | ✓ Yes |
| Loading & Unloading | ✗ No | ✓ Yes |
| Input Tax Credit (ITC) | ✗ Not available | ✓ Available |
| Ideal For | Individuals / DIY movers | Families, corporates, offices |
| Example Cost (₹30,000 base) | ₹31,500 total | ₹35,400 total |
Is GST Included in Packers and Movers Charges?
In most cases, no. The amount quoted by a mover is usually the base packers and movers charges. GST is added separately at the billing stage.
Before confirming any booking, always verify:
- The GST rate being applied (5% or 18%)
- The GSTIN of the company (confirms they are registered)
- The final payable amount including GST
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GST on Packers and Movers – Real Cost Examples
| Move Type | Base Charges | GST Rate | GST Amount | Total Payable |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Local house shift (transport only) | ₹8,000 | 5% | ₹400 | ₹8,400 |
| Intercity household move (full service) | ₹30,000 | 18% | ₹5,400 | ₹35,400 |
| Premium household relocation (full service) | ₹60,000 | 18% | ₹10,800 | ₹70,800 |
| Office shifting (full service) | ₹80,000 | 18% | ₹14,400 | ₹94,400 |
What if the Packers and Movers Company is Not GST Registered?
If a mover's annual turnover is below ₹20 lakhs (₹10 lakhs for special category states), they are not required to register under GST. In such cases, they cannot charge GST — and if they do, it is illegal.
However, using an unregistered mover comes with risks: no GST invoice, no paper trail, and no eligibility for transit insurance claims. For businesses, this means losing ITC eligibility and inviting compliance risk.
How to Read a GST Invoice from Packers and Movers
A valid GST invoice must show the mover's GSTIN, SAC code (996511 for transport, 998540 for relocation), taxable value, and the GST component separately. If any of these are missing, the invoice is not compliant.
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