GST on Packers and Movers Charges in India: Rates, Examples and Invoice Checks
GST on packers and movers in India is 18% when you hire a full service that includes packing, loading, transport and unloading. If you hire only a truck to carry goods, with no packing or handling, the goods transport rate of 5% applies. Most household moves are full-service, so most invoices carry 18%.
This guide explains which rate applies to which kind of booking, shows the tax on real quote amounts, and lists what a correct GST invoice must contain. It is general information for customers, not tax advice.
What is the GST rate on packers and movers services?
| What you book | GST rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Full service: packing, loading, transport, unloading | 18% | Treated as one composite service. This is the usual case for house shifting. |
| Transport only (goods transport agency), no packing or handling | 5% | Charged without input tax credit. Some transporters opt for 18% with input tax credit instead. |
| Packing, loading or unloading booked on its own | 18% | Labour-only or packing-only jobs. |
| Storage and warehousing of household goods | 18% | Billed monthly in most cases. |
| Transit insurance premium | 18% | Charged on the premium, not on the value of your goods. |
Under the GST rate changes that took effect in September 2025, the 12% slab was removed. Goods transport agencies that previously charged 12% with input tax credit are now reported to charge 18% for that option, while the 5% rate without credit continues. Ask your mover which basis the quote uses.
How much GST will I pay on my move?
GST is calculated on the service value, before tolls. These examples use Multishift's published October 2026 local rates.
| Move | Service value | GST at 18% | Amount payable |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 BHK local | ₹6,500 – ₹9,500 | ₹1,170 – ₹1,710 | ₹7,670 – ₹11,210 |
| 2 BHK local | ₹10,500 – ₹15,500 | ₹1,890 – ₹2,790 | ₹12,390 – ₹18,290 |
| 3 BHK local | ₹18,500 – ₹19,000 | ₹3,330 – ₹3,420 | ₹21,830 – ₹22,420 |
The final charge is confirmed in a written quotation after a survey, and may vary with the volume of goods, building access, distance, moving date and prevailing fuel and toll costs.
If you add insurance, GST is charged on the premium as well. On a ₹9,000 premium that is ₹1,620.
Which SAC code appears on a packers and movers invoice?
Service invoices carry a Services Accounting Code. Movers commonly use two:
- SAC 9965, goods transport services: the transport part of a move, and the code used for transport-only bookings.
- SAC 9967, supporting services in transport: cargo handling, packing, loading, unloading and storage.
Different movers classify a full-service move under one or the other. For a customer the code matters less than the rate, the GSTIN and a clear breakup.
What should a correct GST invoice show?
- The mover's legal name, address and 15-digit GSTIN.
- Invoice number and date.
- Your name and both addresses.
- A description of the service and the SAC code.
- The taxable value, the rate, and the tax split as CGST and SGST for a move within one state, or IGST for a move between states.
- The total payable.
You can check any GSTIN on the government's GST portal under Search Taxpayer. The name shown there should match the name on your quote.
Can I claim GST back on moving charges?
For a personal house move, no. Input tax credit is available only to GST-registered businesses, and only when the move is for business purposes, such as an office relocation, and the invoice is in the business's name with its GSTIN.
If your employer reimburses your relocation, the usual requirement is a GST invoice in your name showing the mover's GSTIN. Ask your HR team which format they accept before the move, not after.
What if a mover offers a lower price without GST?
A quote "without bill" removes your proof of the transaction. Without a tax invoice you have nothing to support an insurance claim, a reimbursement or a consumer complaint. A registered mover must charge GST on a taxable service. Treat an offer to skip it as a warning sign, and read our guide to choosing a mover.
Frequently asked questions
What is the GST rate for packers and movers in India?
18% for a full service that includes packing, loading, transport and unloading. 5% applies only when you book goods transport alone, without packing or handling.
Is GST charged on household goods shifting?
Yes. House shifting by a GST-registered mover is a taxable service, and GST is added to the service value on the invoice.
Is GST charged on the total bill or on each item?
On the taxable value of the service. Tolls paid on your behalf are usually shown separately. Insurance premium carries its own 18%.
Will I pay CGST and SGST, or IGST?
For a move within one state, such as Navi Mumbai to Pune, the invoice shows CGST and SGST at 9% each. For a move between states, such as Mumbai to Bangalore, it shows IGST at 18%.
Can I get a GST invoice for a company reimbursement?
Yes. Multishift issues a GST invoice for every booking. Tell us before the move if your employer needs particular details on it.
Is the quoted price inclusive of GST?
It depends on the mover, so ask. Multishift's published rates are before GST, and the tax is shown as a separate line.
Sources and further reading
- GST portal: Search Taxpayer
- CBIC: GST rates for goods and services
- ClearTax: GST on packers and movers
Last reviewed Oct 13, 2026. This guide is general information, not tax advice.