If you’ve ever taken a quote from packers and movers in Kolkata, you’ve probably noticed one confusing thing.

Some companies say GST is 5%.

Others say it’s 18%.

And naturally, the first question that comes to your mind is – “Which one is actually correct?”

I’ve been asked this many times during shifting discussions, and honestly, the confusion is very common. So let’s clear it properly in simple terms.

Table of Contents

First, Understand One Simple Thing About GST

GST is not an extra or optional charge.

If a moving company is registered, they are legally required to charge GST. So if someone tells you “No GST lagega”, that’s usually a red flag.

Now the real part – why different rates exist.

Why Some Movers Charge 5% and Others Charge 18%

The GST rate completely depends on what kind of service you are taking.

When GST is 5% (Transport Only)

If you are only hiring a truck – meaning :

You handle packing yourself
You arrange loading/unloading
Movers only transport your goods

Then GST is 5%.

This comes under Goods Transport Agency (GTA) service.

But here’s the catch – At 5%, the company cannot claim Input Tax Credit (ITC). So this option is usually basic and limited.

When GST is 18% (Full-Service Shifting)

Now this is what most families in Kolkata actually choose.

When the company handles everything :

Packing
Loading
Transportation
Unloading
Unpacking

Then GST becomes 18%.

Because now it’s not just transport – it’s a complete relocation service, including materials, labour, and handling.

So if you’re taking full service (which most people do), 18% GST is correct and standard.

HSN / SAC Codes For Packers and Movers

This is something most customers don’t ask about – but it’s important.

For packers and movers, services are classified under :

SAC Code 9966 → Full shifting services (packing + moving + handling)
SAC Code 9965 → Transport-only services

If a company gives you a proper invoice, you’ll usually see these codes mentioned.

It simply shows that the service is categorized correctly under GST.

GST in Local vs Intercity Shifting

Now many people think GST changes based on distance – but that’s not exactly true.

The rate stays the same, only the structure changes.

Within Kolkata (Intra-State Move)

You’ll see :

9% CGST
9% SGST

Total = 18%

Kolkata to Another City (Inter-State Move)

Here, it becomes :

18% IGST

Still 18% total, just shown differently.

Simple Example So You Understand Clearly

Let’s say your full shifting cost is ₹50,000.

GST (18%) = ₹9,000
Total = ₹59,000

Now if you only take transport for ₹30,000 :

GST (5%) = ₹1,500
Total = ₹31,500

So yes, 5% looks cheaper – but remember, you’re doing all the hard work yourself.

Common Mistakes People Make

I’ve seen customers face issues just because of small misunderstandings.

One common mistake is assuming GST is always included in the quote. Sometimes it’s added later, which increases the final amount.

Another issue is trusting very low quotes. Some companies either don’t include GST initially or apply the wrong rate later.

Also, if someone is charging GST, always ask for their GST number. A genuine company will never hesitate to share it.

A Small Reality Check

Many people try to save money by choosing 5% GST transport-only service.

But on shifting day, they realise :

Packing is incomplete
Items are not protected properly
Loading becomes chaotic

And in the end, the stress becomes much higher.

That’s why most families in Kolkata prefer full-service shifting, even with 18% GST – because it’s simply smoother.

Final Thought

GST is not something to bargain or avoid – it’s something to understand properly.

Once you know why 5% and 18% exist, the confusion goes away completely.

And during shifting, clarity matters more than saving a small amount – because one mistake in service choice can cost you much more than GST itself.

GST Rates and HSN Codes For Packers and Movers in Kolkata (2026 Guide)

First, Understand One Simple Thing About GST