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Customs Clearance of Dental Equipment in Iran (HS Code + Documents & Permits)
Customs clearance of dental equipment — clearing dental equipment from customs, as one of the most important stages in importing these sensitive devices, plays a vital role in delivering quality healthcare services in the country. Due to their direct connection with public health and use in medical centers, dental equipment requires compliance with international standards and obtaining precise permits from relevant organizations and authorities.
For an estimate of the time and cost to clear dental equipment, contact the experts at Saba Tarkhis.
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1) Detailed Description of Dental Equipment
Dental equipment and its importance in the import process — dental equipment comprises a set of specialized devices and instruments used to diagnose, prevent, and treat oral and dental diseases. Since these devices are directly related to people’s health, their import requires adherence to high international standards and specific legal requirements. Some of the most important imported dental equipment includes:
Dental unit: the main device in every dental practice, including the patient chair, lights, and auxiliary tools used for examination and treatment.
Dental radiography devices: used for imaging teeth and jaws and enabling accurate diagnosis of dental issues.
Autoclave: one of the most critical devices in any practice, used to sterilize dental instruments and prevent infection transmission. Dental drill: used for tooth preparation and one of the primary tools in various dental treatments including fillings, endodontics, and implants.
Risk classification: many dental items are placed in risk classes I/II/III according to international standards; class determination directly affects documentation and permits.
Common standards: ISO 13485 (medical devices quality management system), ISO 14971 (risk management), and UDI labeling in some markets.
Storage and transport conditions (cold chain for some materials; shock/humidity sensitivity for devices) must be stated in the bill of lading and insurance policy.
2) Types & Applications of Dental Equipment
Types of dental equipment
1. Dental unit
Description: includes chair, light, and dental instruments.
Tariff code: 9018.90.10
Description: includes chair, light, and dental instruments.
Tariff code: 9018.90.10
2. Dental radiography device
Description: includes X-ray devices and other imaging equipment.
Tariff code: 9018.90.20
Description: includes X-ray devices and other imaging equipment.
Tariff code: 9018.90.20
3. Dental surgical instruments
Description: includes instruments for extraction and periodontal surgeries.
Tariff code: 9018.90.30
Description: includes instruments for extraction and periodontal surgeries.
Tariff code: 9018.90.30
4. Orthodontic equipment
Description: includes brackets, wires, and other orthodontic tools.
Tariff code: 9021.10.00
Description: includes brackets, wires, and other orthodontic tools.
Tariff code: 9021.10.00
5. Dental materials
Description: includes fillers, cements, and restorative materials.
Tariff code: 3006.10.00
Description: includes fillers, cements, and restorative materials.
Tariff code: 3006.10.00
6. Infection control instruments
Description: includes sterilization and disinfection devices.
Tariff code: 8422.19.00
Description: includes sterilization and disinfection devices.
Tariff code: 8422.19.00
7. Dental anesthetics
Description: includes drugs and materials used for anesthesia.
Tariff code: 3004.90.00
Description: includes drugs and materials used for anesthesia.
Tariff code: 3004.90.00
8. Dental laboratory equipment
Description: includes laboratory devices for prosthesis preparation and lab work.
Tariff code: 9018.90.40
Description: includes laboratory devices for prosthesis preparation and lab work.
Tariff code: 9018.90.40
9. Dental prosthetic appliances
Description: includes dentures and dental prostheses.
Tariff code: 9021.10.10
Description: includes dentures and dental prostheses.
Tariff code: 9021.10.10
10. Digital dental equipment & materials
Description: includes scanners and 3D printers.
Tariff code: 9018.90.50
Description: includes scanners and 3D printers.
Tariff code: 9018.90.50
Clinical: diagnosis (X-ray, CBCT), restorative & cosmetic treatments, oral & maxillofacial surgery, endodontics, prosthodontics, and orthodontics.
Laboratory: CAD/CAM, 3D printing, furnaces, and zirconia/PMMA milling machines.
Infection control: sterilization, ultrasonic cleaners, packaging, and sterilization process monitoring.
3) Key Points in Clearing Dental Equipment
Key considerations in clearing dental equipment — clearance involves mandatory points to ensure goods pass through customs without issues. Some of the most important key points include:
- Health & safety standards: dental equipment must conform to recognized global standards such as CE (European) or FDA (U.S.).
- Customs & health inspections: some dental devices must be inspected by health authorities before clearance to ensure safety and quality.
- Accurate tariff classification: selecting the precise HS code for each device is crucial. Errors can cause clearance issues and increase duties.
- Label/manual consistency: brand, model, serial number, country of origin, and voltage/frequency must match across invoice, packing list, COA/COC, and the device itself.
- Drug/device classification: anesthetics, cements, and some kits fall under Ministry of Health regulations and may use different HS codes.
- EEE & electrical safety: declare power rating; provide electrical safety test certificates and EMC reports for powered devices.
4) Customs Tariff & HS Codes for Dental Equipment
Customs tariff (HS Code) for dental equipment — the HS code varies by device type and application. HS codes are among the most important tools for classifying goods in customs procedures, determining import duties, and identifying the required documents and permits for clearance. Some key HS codes for dental equipment include:
Dental unit: 901849 Dental radiography devices: 902213 Autoclave: 841920 Dental drill: 846729
| Item | Short Description | HS Code (Set 1) | HS Code (Set 2) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dental unit | Chair, light, and unit components | 901849 | 9018.90.10 |
| Dental radiography | X-ray/CBCT | 902213 | 9018.90.20 |
| Autoclave | Steam sterilization | 841920 | 8422.19.00 |
| Dental drill | Handpiece/micromotor | 846729 | 9018.90.30 / 9018.90.50 |
| Orthodontic equipment | Bracket, wire, tools | 9021.10.00 | 9021.10.10 |
| Dental materials | Cement, composite, amalgam | 3006.10.00 | 3004.90.00 (anesthetics) |
Final classification depends on model/application, components, inclusion of consumables, risk class, and technical documentation.
5) Special Conditions for Import & Export
Special conditions for importing and exporting dental equipment — importing dental equipment into Iran: Iran is recognized as one of the major importers of dental equipment in the region. With the continuous development of the healthcare and dental sector, the need for modern, high-quality equipment is increasing. Countries such as Germany, Italy, China, South Korea, and Japan are known as primary suppliers to Iran. According to statistics, the value of dental equipment imports into Iran reached around $200 million last year, reflecting an annual growth of 15% in this sector. This increase is due to rising demand for healthcare services, growth in the number of dental clinics and practices, and upgrades in dental services nationwide.
Exporting dental equipment from Iran: exports are made to neighboring countries such as Iraq and Afghanistan. Although the export volume is currently limited, given domestic production capacities and these countries’ demand for quality dental equipment, exports are expected to grow significantly. Last year, exports reached about $10 million, and with improvements in the quality and variety of domestic products, this figure is expected to rise.
6) Iranian Market: Suppliers & Destinations
Main supplier countries to Iran: Germany, Italy, China, South Korea, and Japan. Current export destinations for Iran: Iraq, Afghanistan (with potential to expand across the region).
7) Trade Volume: Iran & Worldwide
Global trade volume of dental equipment — the market is growing significantly. Currently, the global dental equipment market is valued at over $30 billion and is forecast to reach $45 billion by 2026 due to rising demand for healthcare and dental services. Germany, the United States, Japan, and China are among the largest producers and exporters.
8) Global Market: Major Exporters & Importers
Global exporters — advanced countries such as Germany, the United States, Japan, and Switzerland are among the largest exporters of dental equipment. With innovative technologies and high-quality products, they have influenced global markets and captured a large share of global trade.
Global importers — countries such as Iran, India, Turkey, Brazil, and Russia are among the largest importers of dental equipment, driven by higher levels of healthcare and dental services and strong market demand.
9) Required Documents for Clearance
Required documents for clearing dental equipment — customs clearance of dental equipment is a sensitive and complex process that requires specific documentation. These documents not only facilitate clearance but also help ensure the equipment meets health and legal standards.
1. Import permit from the Ministry of Health
Issued by the Ministry of Health, Treatment, and Medical Education, confirming that dental equipment complies with health and safety standards. Mandatory for all dental equipment and usually includes item details and necessary approvals for import.
Issued by the Ministry of Health, Treatment, and Medical Education, confirming that dental equipment complies with health and safety standards. Mandatory for all dental equipment and usually includes item details and necessary approvals for import.
2. Order registration in the National Trade System
Before any action, your order must be registered in the National Trade System. This step is crucial for legal and procedural tracking.
Before any action, your order must be registered in the National Trade System. This step is crucial for legal and procedural tracking.
3. Sales invoice and proforma
The sales invoice must include precise information on the type and quantity of equipment, price, delivery terms, and the supplier’s name. The proforma is also commonly used as initial documentation during clearance.
The sales invoice must include precise information on the type and quantity of equipment, price, delivery terms, and the supplier’s name. The proforma is also commonly used as initial documentation during clearance.
4. Transport insurance policy
This essential document shows the equipment is insured during transit. It should include item details, transport conditions, and type of coverage.
This essential document shows the equipment is insured during transit. It should include item details, transport conditions, and type of coverage.
5. Bill of lading
A document providing exact information on the type of goods, weight, volume, and origin/destination; it plays a key role in identifying and tracking the shipment.
A document providing exact information on the type of goods, weight, volume, and origin/destination; it plays a key role in identifying and tracking the shipment.
6. Certificate of origin
Specifies the country from which the goods are imported and is usually issued by the supplier. Essential for determining customs duties and technical requirements.
Specifies the country from which the goods are imported and is usually issued by the supplier. Essential for determining customs duties and technical requirements.
7. Inspection certificate
Issued by accredited inspection companies, confirming the dental equipment meets necessary standards and quality conditions.
Issued by accredited inspection companies, confirming the dental equipment meets necessary standards and quality conditions.
8. Documents related to international standards
Many dental devices require international certifications, such as CE (European) or FDA (U.S. Food & Drug Administration). These indicate compliance with global standards.
Many dental devices require international certifications, such as CE (European) or FDA (U.S. Food & Drug Administration). These indicate compliance with global standards.
9. Proforma invoice
A preliminary invoice in international transactions containing complete information on the goods, price, and sales terms.
A preliminary invoice in international transactions containing complete information on the goods, price, and sales terms.
10. Special certificates (if required)
Depending on the device type, additional specific certificates may be needed, such as laboratory reports or safety approvals.
Depending on the device type, additional specific certificates may be needed, such as laboratory reports or safety approvals.
Need precise HS code determination, Ministry of Health permits, and documentation preparation? Our team manages your case end-to-end.
Submit pro forma requestKey Tips & Practical Recommendations
- Before purchase, match the proposed HS code with the catalog and device images, and ensure it aligns with the device label.
- For high-risk items, obtain preliminary assessment from the Ministry of Health and request written confirmation.
- Use shock/moisture-resistant packaging and all-risk insurance for sea/air shipments; breakage/water damage are common dispute causes.
- For mixed shipments, separate consumables from capital equipment to keep classification and permitting clear.
Frequently Asked Questions
What permits are required to clear powered dental devices?
Generally, a Ministry of Health permit for applicable items, along with electrical safety/EMC documents and international standards (CE/FDA), is required. Label consistency with shipping documents is critical.
What are the consequences of HS code discrepancies?
They can delay clearance, trigger re-evaluation, and increase import duties. It’s recommended to conduct and document preliminary classification before purchase.
Do all devices require CE or FDA?
Depending on risk class and country of origin, valid certificates are mandatory. In Iran, the Ministry of Health permitting is central, and international documentation supports approval.
What are the minimum documents to start the process?
Proforma/commercial invoice, catalog and device photos, technical specifications, proposed HS code, certificate of origin, insurance policy, and bill of lading. For applicable items, Ministry of Health permit is also required.
Suggested Links
Multimedia Suggestion
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- Caption: «Dental equipment clearance process — from order registration to Ministry of Health permit»
- Infographic: «Document checklist + clearance roadmap + common HS code errors»
Conclusion & Call to Action
Customs clearance of dental equipment is a specialized and sensitive process. To reduce legal risks, save costs, and accelerate clearance, leverage the experience of the Saba Tarkhis team.
Request expert consultation Get a clearance pro formaSpecial Services for Clearing Dental Equipment
Special services for clearing dental equipment — Saba Tarkhis Brokerage, with years of experience in customs clearance, offers tailored services for dental equipment. These include:
Specialized consulting: our experts, fully versed in customs and health regulations, provide the best strategies for clearing dental equipment, including accurate tariff classification, obtaining necessary permits, and optimizing the clearance process.
Permit follow-up: securing health and technical permits is a key challenge. Our team meticulously follows up to facilitate clearance and prevent potential delays.
Logistics solutions: in collaboration with reputable carriers, we offer optimal options for fast and safe transport of dental equipment to importers.
Fast, assured clearance: relying on our team’s expertise, we ensure goods are cleared in the shortest possible time and in compliance with all customs and health regulations.
Cost savings: by providing optimized solutions at each stage, we help importers clear their equipment at the lowest possible cost.
Ultimately, these specialized services allow importers to bring in and clear their goods with peace of mind. Leveraging these services not only speeds up clearance but also reduces costs and prevents legal issues.
