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Customs Clearance of Bitumen | HS Code, Documents, ASTM/EN Standards, Transportation, and Global Trade Status

Customs Clearance of Bitumen in Iran (HS Code + Documents and Standards)

Customs clearance of bitumen. Bitumen, a key material in construction and road building, plays a vital role in infrastructure projects due to its unique properties, including adhesiveness and water resistance. Derived from crude oil refining, bitumen is used in asphalt production, waterproofing, and manufacturing various industrial products.

To estimate the time and cost of bitumen clearance (petroleum/natural), contact the experts at Saba Tarkhis.

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1) Applications of Bitumen in Various Industries

Due to its special characteristics, bitumen has diverse applications across industrial and construction sectors:
Asphalting and Road Construction: As an adhesive and weather-resistant material, bitumen is primarily used in asphalt production. Acting as the binder for asphalt components, it helps maintain road structure and prevents cracking and damage caused by rain and snow. By providing greater strength and durability, bitumen increases road service life and ensures better pavement quality.

Waterproofing: In the construction industry, bitumen is used to waterproof surfaces such as rooftops, walls, and water tanks. By creating an impermeable layer, bitumen prevents water and moisture from entering buildings and helps preserve and extend the lifespan of structures—especially important in regions with high rainfall and harsh weather.

Manufacturing Industrial Products: Bitumen is used to produce industrial products such as water-resistant paints, thermal insulators, and other specialty materials—particularly for applications requiring high resistance to water and environmental conditions.

2) Technical Considerations for Clearing Bitumen from Customs

Customs Tariff Code (HS Code)

Precise determination of the HS Code is crucial for clearing bitumen. Typically, 2714.90 is used for natural bitumen and 2713.20 for petroleum bitumen. Correct HS selection can significantly affect clearance procedures and customs costs. Errors in HS selection can lead to clearance delays and increased expenses.

International Standards

Bitumen must comply with international standards such as ASTM D3460 and EN 12591. These standards include precise technical specifications such as purity percentage, softening point, and resistance to environmental factors. Compliance is essential to ensure quality and meet international regulatory requirements.

Customs Assessment

Customs assessors may select bitumen samples for quality and quantitative testing to ensure conformity with required technical specifications and standards. Providing accurate and up-to-date documents and information helps reduce clearance time and prevent issues.

Transportation and Packaging

Bitumen must be transported under specific conditions to prevent property changes or environmental contamination. Proper packaging and observing transport temperature are among the key considerations. Using suitable, insulated containers helps maintain bitumen quality during transit.

3) Global Import and Export Status of Bitumen

As one of the key materials in construction and road building, bitumen plays a very important role in the global economy. Benefiting from rich oil resources and advanced refineries, Iran has become one of the largest producers and exporters of bitumen worldwide. In this section, we examine imports and exports, global turnover, major exporters and importers, and best clearance practices.

Volume of Bitumen Imports and Exports Related to Iran

With high production and refining capacity, Iran exports large volumes of bitumen to various countries. Iran’s bitumen exports reach several million tons annually, underscoring the material’s international trade importance. Conversely, bitumen imports into Iran are relatively low, since domestic production generally meets internal needs; however, certain specialty grades with unique properties may be imported for specific applications.

Global Bitumen Turnover

Owing to its widespread use in multiple industries, including construction and road building, the global bitumen market is currently one of the large and active markets. Global bitumen turnover reaches about 100 million tons annually, indicating strong international demand. Countries produce and consume substantial quantities of bitumen based on their industrial and infrastructure needs.

Major Global Exporters and Importers of Bitumen

Major exporters of bitumen worldwide: Iran: the largest exporter of bitumen globally, with annual exports exceeding 10 million tons. The United States: one of the primary producers and exporters of bitumen, serving both domestic and international markets. Canada: with abundant natural resources and advanced refineries, a major exporter of bitumen. Russia: with high production and strong export markets, a major global exporter. Some European countries: such as Norway and the Netherlands, active in bitumen production and export. Major bitumen importers worldwide: India: one of the largest importers, with high demand for construction and infrastructure projects. China: with rapid infrastructure development and civil projects, one of the world’s largest consumers. Japan: high demand for construction and road building. Turkey: rapid infrastructure growth requiring bitumen for civil projects. Some African countries: dependent on imports due to infrastructure development and construction needs.

4) Required Documents for Clearing Bitumen from Customs

Clearing bitumen from customs requires submitting complete and accurate documents, which can simplify and expedite the process.
1. Invoice
The invoice is a key document that must include all details related to the bitumen—seller and buyer names/addresses, issue date, invoice number, type and quantity of bitumen, unit and total price, and payment terms. Accurate information helps prevent customs issues.
2. Bill of Lading
The bill of lading—evidencing shipment from origin to destination includes the carrier’s name/address, date and B/L number, bitumen details, transport information, and destination. It must be provided correctly and completely to avoid problems.
3. Certificate of Origin
This certifies the country in which the bitumen was produced and must include the producer’s name/address, country of origin, issue date, and approval from the chamber of commerce or competent authority in the origin country. It confirms authenticity and is important for customs.
4. Quality Certificate
The quality certificate confirms that the bitumen meets the required technical and quality standards. It should include test results, technical specifications (e.g., purity percentage and softening point), and accreditation from a recognized laboratory.
5. Standard Certificate
This certifies compliance with international standards such as ASTM D3460 or EN 12591. It includes the standard name/number, results of conformity, and approval from the relevant standards body. Compliance helps avoid customs issues.
6. Approval Certificate from Relevant Authorities
In some cases, specific approvals from government agencies or regulators are required such as approvals from the Ministry of Petroleum and environmental permits if needed. These documents support establishment and management of the clearance process.
7. Import License (Order Registration Permit)
An import license issued by government bodies for bringing in bitumen. It must include the license number, issue date, importer info, and commodity type. This document is essential and must be submitted correctly.
8. Transport and Insurance Documents
These include information on cargo insurance and transport conditions—insurance policy, terms/coverage, and insurer contact details. Critical for protecting the shipment during transit.
9. Payment Proof
Evidence of financial settlement for the bitumen purchase—payment receipt, bank account info, and payment date/amount. Required to verify financial transactions.
10. Customs and Administrative Documents
Including the customs declaration, HS Code, and documents related to national customs laws and regulations. Submission facilitates and speeds up clearance.
Item Short Description HS Code
Petroleum bitumen (Petroleum Bitumen) Refining product; asphalt/waterproofing/industry 2713.20
Natural bitumen/asphalt and bituminous rocks Natural bitumen, bituminous sands/rocks, natural asphalt 2714.90

Exact classification depends on origin (petroleum/natural), form of supply (bulk/drum), viscosity, and end use.

Need precise HS determination, ASTM/EN standard coordination, and document preparation? Our team manages the case end-to-end.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the HS Codes for petroleum and natural bitumen?

As per your text: petroleum bitumen is generally classified under 2713.20 and natural bitumen/asphalt under 2714.90; final classification depends on origin and specifications.

Which standards are accepted for bitumen?

Your text mentions ASTM D3460 and EN 12591. Depending on bitumen type/application, additional standards may be requested.

What are the key documents required for bitumen clearance?

Invoice, bill of lading, certificate of origin and quality, standard certificate (ASTM/EN), order registration permit, cargo insurance, customs declaration, and other administrative formalities.

Multimedia Suggestions

  • Image file name: bitumen-customs-clearance-iran.jpg
  • Alt Text: Customs clearance of bitumen in Iran | HS 2713.20 & 2714.90
  • Caption: «Checklist of HS, ASTM/EN standards, and documents for bitumen clearance»
  • Infographic: «Bitumen clearance path: Order registration → Standards/quality → Transport & insurance → Clearance»

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Conclusion & Call to Action

Bitumen clearance requires practical experience and mastery of regulations due to standard, quality, and special transport requirements. With a specialized team, Saba Tarkhis advances your process quickly, accurately, and in line with international standards.

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Special Customs Clearance Services by Saba Brokerage

To facilitate bitumen clearance and reduce costs, Saba Brokerage leverages its experience and expertise to provide special services as follows:

Specialized Consulting: Using up-to-date knowledge and awareness of the latest laws and regulations, we provide expert advice on selecting the correct HS Code, required documents, and adherence to international standards. This helps you proceed confidently and avoid mistakes.
Customs Process Management: Comprehensive and effective management of all clearance steps, including order registration, document submission, and necessary follow-ups with relevant organizations ensuring a smooth, on-time process with careful tracking of all customs matters.
Transport Coordination: Managing bitumen transport from origin to destination with attention to special transport conditions and proper packaging. Using reliable logistics networks minimizes transport-related issues and prevents problems at this stage.
Issue Resolution: Addressing potential problems and providing swift, effective solutions to prevent delays in the clearance process. With our expertise and experience, issues are resolved efficiently to streamline clearance.

Using these special services can significantly reduce the time and costs associated with bitumen clearance and ensure a flawless, optimized process so you can complete projects on time and with high quality.

Contact our experts for more information.

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