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Customs clearance of all types of balls in Iran (HS Codes, documents, procedures and key notes)
Customs clearance of all types of balls
The import and clearance of sports balls is one of the most important parts of international trade in the field of sports equipment, which—given the ever-growing popularity of sports in Iran and worldwide, especially ball sports—has gained high significance. The import of these products, particularly from countries such as China, Pakistan, and India (the major producers of sports balls), plays a vital role in meeting domestic demand. Therefore, familiarity with customs laws and specialized regulations for clearing these goods is highly important.
The import and clearance of sports balls is one of the most important parts of international trade in the field of sports equipment, which—given the ever-growing popularity of sports in Iran and worldwide, especially ball sports—has gained high significance. The import of these products, particularly from countries such as China, Pakistan, and India (the major producers of sports balls), plays a vital role in meeting domestic demand. Therefore, familiarity with customs laws and specialized regulations for clearing these goods is highly important.
For estimating the time and cost of clearing all types of sports balls, contact the Saba Tarkhis experts.
Instant free consultation۱) Types of sports balls and their specifications
Sports balls are produced in various types for different sports, and each type has specific features and standards in terms of size, weight, construction materials, and cover. These standards are set according to international sports regulations, including those of various sports federations. The most important types of sports balls include the following:
۱. Football (soccer) ball
The football (soccer) ball is one of the most in-demand and popular sports products, imported from multiple countries. These balls are usually made from synthetic materials or leather and, according to FIFA standards, have specific sizes and weights. The diameter of footballs is usually between ۶۸ to ۷۰ centimeters and their weight ranges between ۴۱۰ to ۴۵۰ grams. The construction materials must be such that they can withstand repeated impacts and various weather conditions.
۲. Basketball
Due to the popularity of basketball, both at professional and amateur levels, basketballs are another high-demand item. They are made from synthetic or natural leather, and depending on the type of play (indoor or outdoor), their size and weight may differ. According to FIBA standards, the diameter of these balls is usually ۷۵ centimeters and their weight is about ۶۰۰ grams.
۳. Volleyball
Volleyballs are specially designed for indoor and outdoor play. These balls must be light and soft, with a weight of about ۲۶۰ to ۲۸۰ grams. The standard diameter is ۶۵ to ۶۷ centimeters. The materials used must be durable to resist air pressure and impacts.
۴. Tennis ball
Tennis balls are typically made of felt with a rubber core. The standard diameter is about ۶.۵۴ to ۶.۸۶ centimeters and the weight is about ۵۶.۷ to ۵۸.۵ grams. Imports to Iran mainly come from European countries such as Germany and France, as well as from Asia—especially China.
۵. Golf ball
Golf balls are made of hard plastic or polyurethane, with a diameter of about ۴۲.۶۷ millimeters and a weight of ۴۵.۹۳ grams. Due to their more limited and specialized use compared to other balls, they may require special regulations for clearance.
۱. Football (soccer) ball
The football (soccer) ball is one of the most in-demand and popular sports products, imported from multiple countries. These balls are usually made from synthetic materials or leather and, according to FIFA standards, have specific sizes and weights. The diameter of footballs is usually between ۶۸ to ۷۰ centimeters and their weight ranges between ۴۱۰ to ۴۵۰ grams. The construction materials must be such that they can withstand repeated impacts and various weather conditions.
۲. Basketball
Due to the popularity of basketball, both at professional and amateur levels, basketballs are another high-demand item. They are made from synthetic or natural leather, and depending on the type of play (indoor or outdoor), their size and weight may differ. According to FIBA standards, the diameter of these balls is usually ۷۵ centimeters and their weight is about ۶۰۰ grams.
۳. Volleyball
Volleyballs are specially designed for indoor and outdoor play. These balls must be light and soft, with a weight of about ۲۶۰ to ۲۸۰ grams. The standard diameter is ۶۵ to ۶۷ centimeters. The materials used must be durable to resist air pressure and impacts.
۴. Tennis ball
Tennis balls are typically made of felt with a rubber core. The standard diameter is about ۶.۵۴ to ۶.۸۶ centimeters and the weight is about ۵۶.۷ to ۵۸.۵ grams. Imports to Iran mainly come from European countries such as Germany and France, as well as from Asia—especially China.
۵. Golf ball
Golf balls are made of hard plastic or polyurethane, with a diameter of about ۴۲.۶۷ millimeters and a weight of ۴۵.۹۳ grams. Due to their more limited and specialized use compared to other balls, they may require special regulations for clearance.
۲) Customs tariff and HS Code for different balls
The tariff code or HS Code plays a very important role in the import and export of sports balls. These codes are specified for each type of goods based on international classification and determine import duties and taxes. Below are the most important tariff codes related to sports balls:
Football (soccer) ball: HS Code ۹۵۰۶۶۲۰۰ – used for footballs of any material, including leather or plastic.
Basketball: HS Code ۹۵۰۶۶۹۰۰ – related to basketballs and other large sports balls.
Tennis ball: HS Code ۹۵۰۶۶۱۰۰ – used for tennis balls and may vary slightly depending on materials.
Volleyball: HS Code ۹۵۰۶۶۹۰۰ – used for volleyballs and similar balls.
Golf ball: HS Code ۹۵۰۶۳۲۰۰ – specific to golf balls.
Football (soccer) ball: HS Code ۹۵۰۶۶۲۰۰ – used for footballs of any material, including leather or plastic.
Basketball: HS Code ۹۵۰۶۶۹۰۰ – related to basketballs and other large sports balls.
Tennis ball: HS Code ۹۵۰۶۶۱۰۰ – used for tennis balls and may vary slightly depending on materials.
Volleyball: HS Code ۹۵۰۶۶۹۰۰ – used for volleyballs and similar balls.
Golf ball: HS Code ۹۵۰۶۳۲۰۰ – specific to golf balls.
| Item/Goods | Short description | HS Code | Approx. duty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Football (soccer) ball | Footballs of any material | ۹۵۰۶۶۲۰۰ | Variable per regulations |
| Basketball | Basketballs and other large balls | ۹۵۰۶۶۹۰۰ | Variable per regulations |
| Tennis ball | Tennis balls with rubber core | ۹۵۰۶۶۱۰۰ | Variable per regulations |
| Volleyball | Volleyballs and similar | ۹۵۰۶۶۹۰۰ | Variable per regulations |
| Golf ball | Golf balls | ۹۵۰۶۳۲۰۰ | Variable per regulations |
Rates of import duty/tariff vary by origin/material/packaging and current regulations; final determination lies with customs and relevant authorities.
۳) Key notes for clearing sports balls through customs
Clearing sports balls from customs requires strict compliance with laws and regulations. Some of the most important points to consider are:
۱. Providing complete documentation
For clearing sports balls, providing complete and accurate documents to customs is essential. These include the purchase invoice, bill of lading, certificate of origin, and certificates related to applicable standards. Insufficient documentation or incorrect information can lead to delays in clearance.
۲. Compliance with sports and health standards
Sports balls must comply with international and national standards. These standards are usually set by sports bodies such as FIFA, FIBA, and other international federations. For importing these products, relevant safety and quality certificates are mandatory.
۳. Accurate declaration in the customs entry
All goods must be recorded accurately and completely in the customs declaration. Any discrepancy can lead to heavy fines or detention of the goods at customs. It is recommended to register product information fully and with precise details.
۴. Expert evaluation
Iran Customs usually evaluates imported goods in terms of value, tariff, and relevant standards. In some cases, experts may request more information about the goods, the production process, and raw materials. Therefore, being fully prepared to provide this information is necessary.
۵. Timely payment of customs duties
Timely payment of tariffs and taxes related to imports is very important. Any delay can increase costs and cause the goods to be held in customs warehouses. To avoid this, it is recommended to pay the relevant duties as soon as possible.
۱. Providing complete documentation
For clearing sports balls, providing complete and accurate documents to customs is essential. These include the purchase invoice, bill of lading, certificate of origin, and certificates related to applicable standards. Insufficient documentation or incorrect information can lead to delays in clearance.
۲. Compliance with sports and health standards
Sports balls must comply with international and national standards. These standards are usually set by sports bodies such as FIFA, FIBA, and other international federations. For importing these products, relevant safety and quality certificates are mandatory.
۳. Accurate declaration in the customs entry
All goods must be recorded accurately and completely in the customs declaration. Any discrepancy can lead to heavy fines or detention of the goods at customs. It is recommended to register product information fully and with precise details.
۴. Expert evaluation
Iran Customs usually evaluates imported goods in terms of value, tariff, and relevant standards. In some cases, experts may request more information about the goods, the production process, and raw materials. Therefore, being fully prepared to provide this information is necessary.
۵. Timely payment of customs duties
Timely payment of tariffs and taxes related to imports is very important. Any delay can increase costs and cause the goods to be held in customs warehouses. To avoid this, it is recommended to pay the relevant duties as soon as possible.
۴) Countries and target markets for importing and exporting sports balls
The global market for sports balls is very extensive, and countries such as China, Pakistan, and India are among the largest producers and exporters of these products. Some of the most important countries active in the global sports-ball market are:
China: One of the largest exporters of sports balls. Due to mass production and lower production costs, the country occupies a major share of the global market.
Pakistan: Especially renowned for producing footballs, with many global brands using products made there.
India: Also recognized as an important producer of sports balls in the global market.
Conversely, European countries and the United States are among the largest importers of sports balls. Iran also supplies part of its demand for sports balls from these countries.
Major importers of these products include the following countries:
United States of America: One of the largest importers of sports balls, especially basketballs and footballs.
European countries: Such as Germany, France, and the United Kingdom, which have high imports due to strong interest in football and basketball.
Iran: Iran also meets part of its demand for sports balls from China and Pakistan.
China: One of the largest exporters of sports balls. Due to mass production and lower production costs, the country occupies a major share of the global market.
Pakistan: Especially renowned for producing footballs, with many global brands using products made there.
India: Also recognized as an important producer of sports balls in the global market.
Conversely, European countries and the United States are among the largest importers of sports balls. Iran also supplies part of its demand for sports balls from these countries.
Major importers of these products include the following countries:
United States of America: One of the largest importers of sports balls, especially basketballs and footballs.
European countries: Such as Germany, France, and the United Kingdom, which have high imports due to strong interest in football and basketball.
Iran: Iran also meets part of its demand for sports balls from China and Pakistan.
۵) Special conditions for importing and exporting balls to Iran
Importing and exporting sports balls to Iran is subject to special conditions and regulations that must be carefully observed:
Compliance with national standards: Imported balls must conform to Iran’s national standards and international sports standards.
Different customs tariffs: Customs tariffs may vary based on the type of ball and materials used. It is advisable to carefully review tariffs before proceeding with import.
Use of official (government) foreign currency: In some cases, importers can use government-allocated foreign currency for purchasing these goods, which helps reduce costs.
Compliance with national standards: Imported balls must conform to Iran’s national standards and international sports standards.
Different customs tariffs: Customs tariffs may vary based on the type of ball and materials used. It is advisable to carefully review tariffs before proceeding with import.
Use of official (government) foreign currency: In some cases, importers can use government-allocated foreign currency for purchasing these goods, which helps reduce costs.
۶) Required documents for customs clearance by Saba Brokerage
For customs clearance—especially when importing various goods such as sports balls or other equipment—preparing and submitting the required documents is one of the most sensitive and important stages. These documents, which include the technical, commercial, and financial information of the goods, must be prepared precisely and completely so that the clearance process is carried out without delay. Below are the most important documents required for customs clearance.
۱. Proforma Invoice
The proforma invoice is the first document exchanged between buyer and seller and includes preliminary information about the goods, such as unit price, quantity, payment terms, and product type. It serves as the initial agreement and plays a key role in order registration and the import process.
۲. Commercial Invoice
The commercial invoice is one of the main documents for clearance, containing final information about the goods, including price, type, shipping terms, and seller/buyer details. It must be completed accurately and submitted to customs for final review of the goods.
۳. Bill of Lading or Airway Bill
The bill of lading is a document showing that the goods have been shipped from origin to the specified destination. It is issued by the carrier and includes shipping details such as quantity, weight, and type of packaging. Depending on the mode, it can be ocean, air, or road.
۴. Certificate of Origin
This certificate confirms the country from which the goods were exported. Issued by the chamber of commerce of the origin country, it is important for determining customs tariffs and benefiting from preferential trade arrangements.
۵. Insurance Certificate
This document indicates the goods are insured against potential risks during transit. It is usually issued by the insurer and covers potential losses such as damage or theft.
۶. Packing List
The packing list provides detailed information about the number, type, and contents of each package. It helps customs examine the contents precisely and prevents possible issues during clearance.
۷. Inspection Certificate
Usually issued by a third-party inspection body, this certificate shows that the goods conform to the specifications declared by the buyer. It is essential for some goods requiring quality confirmation or specific standards.
۸. Customs Declaration
The customs declaration contains all information related to the goods and must be accurately registered in the customs system. This includes customs value, type of goods, tariff code (HS Code), and financial details related to the import.
۹. Import Licenses
Some goods require special permits from relevant authorities. For example, importing health-related and sports equipment may require permits from standards organizations or other related bodies.
۱۰. Standard and Health Certificates
For some goods—especially those directly related to human health—presenting health and standard certificates is particularly important. These certificates ensure the goods meet national and international health and quality standards.
۱۱. Order Registration
Before importing, the order must be registered in the order registration system of the Ministry of Industry, Mine and Trade (MIMT). This is one of the first steps in importation, and without it, clearance is not possible.
۱۲. Business Card (Trade License)
To conduct commercial activities and import goods, holding a valid business card (trade license) is mandatory. It is issued by the chamber of commerce and indicates that the holder (company or individual) is authorized to import goods.
۱۳. Duties and Taxes Payment Receipt
Timely payment of customs duties and related taxes is essential. These costs include import duty, value-added tax (VAT), and costs related to clearance.
۱۴. Special Permits
In some cases, goods require special permits from government bodies. This is particularly true for goods such as chemicals, advanced equipment, or specific products that require special oversight.
۱۵. Dangerous Goods Declaration
If the goods include hazardous materials such as chemicals or other items requiring special transport, a dangerous goods declaration must be issued and submitted to customs.
۱. Proforma Invoice
The proforma invoice is the first document exchanged between buyer and seller and includes preliminary information about the goods, such as unit price, quantity, payment terms, and product type. It serves as the initial agreement and plays a key role in order registration and the import process.
۲. Commercial Invoice
The commercial invoice is one of the main documents for clearance, containing final information about the goods, including price, type, shipping terms, and seller/buyer details. It must be completed accurately and submitted to customs for final review of the goods.
۳. Bill of Lading or Airway Bill
The bill of lading is a document showing that the goods have been shipped from origin to the specified destination. It is issued by the carrier and includes shipping details such as quantity, weight, and type of packaging. Depending on the mode, it can be ocean, air, or road.
۴. Certificate of Origin
This certificate confirms the country from which the goods were exported. Issued by the chamber of commerce of the origin country, it is important for determining customs tariffs and benefiting from preferential trade arrangements.
۵. Insurance Certificate
This document indicates the goods are insured against potential risks during transit. It is usually issued by the insurer and covers potential losses such as damage or theft.
۶. Packing List
The packing list provides detailed information about the number, type, and contents of each package. It helps customs examine the contents precisely and prevents possible issues during clearance.
۷. Inspection Certificate
Usually issued by a third-party inspection body, this certificate shows that the goods conform to the specifications declared by the buyer. It is essential for some goods requiring quality confirmation or specific standards.
۸. Customs Declaration
The customs declaration contains all information related to the goods and must be accurately registered in the customs system. This includes customs value, type of goods, tariff code (HS Code), and financial details related to the import.
۹. Import Licenses
Some goods require special permits from relevant authorities. For example, importing health-related and sports equipment may require permits from standards organizations or other related bodies.
۱۰. Standard and Health Certificates
For some goods—especially those directly related to human health—presenting health and standard certificates is particularly important. These certificates ensure the goods meet national and international health and quality standards.
۱۱. Order Registration
Before importing, the order must be registered in the order registration system of the Ministry of Industry, Mine and Trade (MIMT). This is one of the first steps in importation, and without it, clearance is not possible.
۱۲. Business Card (Trade License)
To conduct commercial activities and import goods, holding a valid business card (trade license) is mandatory. It is issued by the chamber of commerce and indicates that the holder (company or individual) is authorized to import goods.
۱۳. Duties and Taxes Payment Receipt
Timely payment of customs duties and related taxes is essential. These costs include import duty, value-added tax (VAT), and costs related to clearance.
۱۴. Special Permits
In some cases, goods require special permits from government bodies. This is particularly true for goods such as chemicals, advanced equipment, or specific products that require special oversight.
۱۵. Dangerous Goods Declaration
If the goods include hazardous materials such as chemicals or other items requiring special transport, a dangerous goods declaration must be issued and submitted to customs.
Need precise HS Code determination for sports items, estimation of import duties, and document preparation? Our team manages the case end-to-end.
Submit proforma requestFrequently asked questions
How are HS Codes for sports balls determined?
Based on the type of sport (football/volleyball/tennis/golf), material and construction; for example, football falls under ۹۵۰۶۶۲۰۰, tennis under ۹۵۰۶۶۱۰۰, and volleyball/basketball under ۹۵۰۶۶۹۰۰; final determination is made by customs.
What standards are required for importing balls?
International standards of sports federations (such as FIFA, FIBA, etc.) and Iran’s national standards regarding weight, diameter, materials, and safety; submission of quality and conformity certificates is mandatory.
How are VAT and clearance costs for sports balls calculated?
Based on customs value + import duties and applicable charges; value-added tax is usually collected according to current regulations, and details are determined by customs at the time of declaration.
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Conclusion and call to action
With many years of experience in clearing sports goods, we provide comprehensive and professional services for importing all types of sports balls.
Request expert consultation Get a clearance proformaSpecialized services for clearing sports balls by Saba Brokerage
With years of experience in clearing sports goods, we provide comprehensive and professional services for importing all types of sports balls. The special services we offer our clients include the following:
Specialized consulting: Our experienced team will accompany you in preparing the required documents, calculating customs duties, and accurately evaluating goods so the import and clearance process proceeds correctly and without issues.
Tracking customs procedures: From the moment the goods arrive until final clearance, our experts carefully and professionally track all stages so your goods reach the market without any obstacles.
Fast service: With our expedited services, the clearance process is completed in the shortest possible time, reducing warehousing costs and accelerating time-to-market.
Use of electronic systems: Leveraging smart and electronic systems speeds up and improves accuracy in the clearance stages and minimizes the chance of errors.
By choosing us to clear sports balls, you will benefit from professional services, specialized consulting, and precise follow-up so your goods reach the market on time and at the lowest possible cost.
