How to Import Surgical Instruments from Pakistan: Step-by-Step Guide

Pakistan, and in particular the city of Sialkot, is one of the world’s leading sources of reusable surgical, dental and beauty instruments. Importing directly from a manufacturer can significantly improve your margins and give you control over quality and branding. Here is a step-by-step guide.

Step 1: Define your products and market requirements

List the instruments, sizes, materials and finishes you need, and confirm the regulatory requirements in your country, such as EU MDR, UK registration or US FDA rules.

Step 2: Find and vet a manufacturer

Look for an established manufacturer with its own factory, an ISO 13485 certificate, export experience and clear communication. Read our guide to surgical instrument manufacturers in Sialkot.

Step 3: Request quotations and samples

Send Art numbers or photos and quantities, and order samples to test quality, finish and fit before placing a bulk order.

Step 4: Agree commercial terms

• Price and MOQ for each item
• Payment terms, for example advance T/T, part payment or PayPal for small orders
• Incoterms: EXW, FOB (Karachi or Lahore airport/port) or CIF/CIP to your destination
• Lead time and packaging
• Branding: laser marking and private label packaging

Step 5: Choose a shipping method

• Courier (DHL, FedEx, UPS): fastest for samples and small orders, door to door.
• Air freight: for medium orders that need to arrive quickly.
• Sea freight: most economical for large volumes.

Step 6: Prepare import documents

• Commercial invoice and packing list
• Certificate of origin, which may support preferential duty under trade schemes such as the EU GSP+
• Airway bill or bill of lading
• Copies of ISO and CE certificates and declarations of conformity where required

Step 7: Classify your products and clear customs

Medical, surgical, dental and veterinary instruments are generally classified under HS heading 9018, for example 9018.49 for dental instruments and 9018.90 for many other surgical instruments. Exact subheadings and duty rates vary by country, so confirm with your customs broker.

Step 8: Inspect and build a long-term relationship

Inspect goods on arrival against your approved samples and give feedback. Regular orders with a reliable manufacturer lead to better pricing, priority production and faster development of new products.

Pak Line Industries has exported from Sialkot since 1985 to 55 countries. Read our How to Order page or contact our export team.

FAQs

What is the HS code for surgical instruments?

Surgical, dental and veterinary instruments fall under HS heading 9018. Dental instruments are commonly 9018.49 and many other surgical instruments 9018.90, but check your national tariff.

How long does shipping from Pakistan take?

Courier shipments typically take several working days, while sea freight can take several weeks depending on the destination.

This article is general information for buyers and is not legal or regulatory advice. Always confirm current requirements with the relevant authority or a regulatory consultant.