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Clearance of metal rolling mills and their rolls from Iranian customs (HS Codes, documents & permits)
Metal rolling mills and rolls are vital tools in metal and steel industries, used for shaping, thickness reduction, and producing sheet, profiles, and pipes. These machines perform rolling by passing metal through multiple rolls, resulting in products with desired thickness and dimensions for automotive, construction, home appliances, aerospace, and other sectors. Rolling is generally carried out in two main approaches: hot rolling (for greater thicknesses) and cold rolling (for higher precision and thinner gauges). Differences in process determine the choice of rolling mill type, each with its own specific features and applications.
To estimate timing, costs, and the exact HS Code for clearing rolling mills and rolls, consult the experts at Saba Tarkhis.
Immediate free consultation Get a proforma1) Detailed description of rolling mills and rolls
A metal rolling mill is a set of frames, stands, shafts, bearings, drives, hydraulic/pneumatic systems, rolling stands, high-power gearboxes, and rolling rolls that apply plastic deformation to metal by controlling parameters such as compressive force, line speed, material temperature, surface friction, and lubricants. In hot rolling, the inlet temperature is within the hot-working range to reduce strength and increase formability; in cold rolling, deformation is performed at ambient temperature to improve surface quality, dimensional accuracy, and mechanical properties.
Depending on production goals, configurations such as four-high (4-High), six-high (6-High), cluster, and tandem are used. For wide strip production, robust high-inertia stands with online thickness control (AGC/AFC) are essential; for profiles and pipes, forming and stepwise calibration stands are employed. Automation systems including PLC/DCS, thickness and surface measurement, roll vibration monitoring, and safety systems (Emergency Stop, Interlock) play key roles in process stability.
Rolls, as consumable-capital parts, are made of alloy steels or alloy cast irons with high surface hardness (sometimes coated or induction-hardened). Selecting material, diameter, barrel length, and surface profiling of rolls depends on input alloy, pass reductions, surface quality, and target thickness drop. Roll inventory management, periodic grinding, and lifecycle tracking are essential to reduce downtime and maintain consistent quality.
From a safety perspective, mechanical guards, safety interlocks, Lockout/Tagout procedures, proper oil/fume ventilation, and preventive maintenance (PM) instructions are mandatory. From an environmental perspective, collecting and recycling lubricants/emulsions and managing process wastes are important. All these technical requirements must be well documented for customs clearance through documentation, labeling, serial numbers, and certificates of conformity.
2) Types and applications
Types of rolling mills
- Hot rolling of wide strip, slab to coil/sheet
- Cold rolling of coil to precise thin sheet with high surface quality
- Rolling of profiles/sections (T, I, channel, angle) and pipe making
- Four-high, six-high, tandem, cluster stands
Industrial applications
- Automotive, body and parts
- Construction and steel structures
- Home appliances, electrical and heating equipment
- Oil, gas, and petrochemicals (line pipe and tanks)
- Aerospace and precision equipment
3) Key and specialized clearance points
Clearing metal rolling mills and rolls from customs is a vital yet complex process in the supply chain of metal and steel industries. Due to the high value of these machines and existing technical sensitivities, attention to detail at all clearance stages is essential.
Regulations and required permits
Obtaining permits from various bodies before importing rolling mills is necessary:
National Standards Organization of Iran: This organization’s approvals are mandatory to ensure compliance with Iran’s national standards.
Ministry of Industry, Mine and Trade: Certain rolling mills may require specific import permits from this ministry, especially if the machines have advanced technologies or special features.
Department of Environment: If the imported machines have specific environmental characteristics or may impact the environment, obtaining a permit from this body is also necessary.
Clearance costs and customs duties
Clearance costs and customs duties for rolling mills vary depending on factors such as country of origin, machine value, and set tariffs:
Customs duties: Duties are usually set between 10 to 15 percent of the machinery value. This percentage may vary based on machine type, country of origin, and trade agreements.
Incidental costs: In addition to customs duties, there are other costs including insurance, warehousing, technical inspection, and customs brokerage services. Accurate awareness of all these costs can help reduce overall clearance expenses.
4) Customs tariff / HS Codes
Rolling mills and rolls fall under different tariff categories based on machine type, application, and technical characteristics.
Tariff codes 8462.21.00 to 8462.39.00 generally apply to rolling mills. These codes vary by rolling operation (hot rolling, cold rolling) and machine application (e.g., sheet rolling, profiles, pipes).
Determining the exact tariff code requires a thorough analysis of technical specifications. This analysis should cover machine type, production capacity, material and thickness of the final product, and other process-specific parameters.
Familiarity with customs tariff tables and mapping machine specifications to these tables is critical and requires deep technical expertise. Incorrect HS Code selection can cause delays, fines, or valuation reviews.
| Subcategory description | Sample application | Sample HS Code |
|---|---|---|
| Rolling mill for sheet/coil | Wide hot strip or precise cold rolling | 8462.21.xx |
| Rolling mill for profiles/sections | Forming I-beams, channels, angles | 8462.29.xx |
| Pipe rolling mill | Production of welded pipes/wire rods | 8462.31–8462.39 |
Note: The final subheading is determined by technical specs, year of manufacture, configuration, and application, and must be matched to the latest tariff book.
5) Documents required for clearance
2. Required documents for clearance
Documents for clearing rolling mills must be prepared and submitted with care. These include:
Commercial invoice: Must include exact information on price, payment terms, and technical specifications.
Packing list: Must itemize all components and accessories, including spare parts.
Bill of lading: Transport document that should include route, insurance terms, and liabilities.
Certificate of origin: Should be endorsed by competent authorities in the country of origin and indicate the precise origin.
Standards and safety certificates: Depending on the machine, international certificates such as CE, ISO, and other recognized standards may be required. These ensure compliance with technical and safety requirements.
Official translation of technical documents: All technical documents and related certificates must be officially translated into Persian and endorsed by the competent bodies in Iran. This is necessary to ensure compliance with domestic standards and regulations.
6) Inspection and valuation
Due to their technical complexity and high value, rolling mills undergo thorough inspections.Technical inspection includes a detailed check of components, conformity with technical specifications in the documents, and assessment of condition (for used machines). These inspections may be performed by customs experts or representatives of competent bodies.
Valuation: Rolling mill valuation usually depends on factors such as technology used, manufacturer brand, year of manufacture, physical condition (for second-hand machines), and production capacity. Incorrect valuation can lead to tax and legal disputes; accuracy is therefore crucial.
7) Regulations and permits
- National Standards Organization of Iran: Obtain conformity approval with national standards.
- Ministry of Industry, Mine and Trade: In specific cases, import permits for advanced technologies or special features.
- Department of Environment: If there are environmental impacts, obtain the related permit.
8) Clearance costs and duties
Customs duties are generally in the range of 10 to 15 percent of the machinery value (depending on machine type, country of origin, and trade agreements). In addition, insurance, warehousing, technical inspection, and brokerage costs must be considered. A precise cost breakdown prevents unforeseen overruns.
9) Special import and export conditions
Import of rolling mills:Germany, Japan, China, Italy, and South Korea are among the largest exporters of these machines to Iran. With advanced technology and high-quality products, these countries are the main suppliers of rolling equipment in the Iranian market.
Export of rolling mills:
Exports from Iran are limited. Exports typically go to neighboring countries and emerging markets seeking cost-effective machinery.
10) Iran’s market, trade volume, and global analysis
Imports of rolling mills to Iran have increased in recent years due to growing needs in construction as well as automotive and oil & gas industries. However, economic conditions and international sanctions have affected import volumes.
Global exports:
Advanced countries such as Germany, Japan, Italy, China, and South Korea, with high technology and extensive production capacity, supply global markets.
Global imports:
Countries with large metal industries—such as China, India, the United States, Brazil, and European countries—are among the biggest importers of this equipment.
Step-by-step clearance method
- Pre-technical review: obtain catalog/datasheet, preliminarily determine HS Code in the 8462.21 to 8462.39 range (per your input), and identify permits
- Order registration and obtaining standard/environmental approvals and required permits
- Prepare shipping documents, insurance, and coordinate with entry points (port/airport/land border)
- Customs declaration, value control, technical inspection, and specification conformity
- Payment of import duty, charges, and incidental costs
- Final clearance and planning domestic transport to installation site
Key tips and practical advice
- Finalize the HS Code after receiving full technical specs (capacity, configuration, rolling type).
- For used machines, add condition reports and service/overhaul records to the documents.
- Estimate incidental costs (warehousing, inspection, transport) in advance to avoid surprises.
For a quick quote on rolling mill clearance costs and timing, take action now.
Request expert consultation Submit proforma requestFrequently asked questions
What are common HS Codes for rolling mills?
Based on your input, the range 8462.21.00 to 8462.39.00 is used for various rolling mills. The final subheading must be determined by precise technical specs and the latest tariff book.
What documents are required for clearance?
Invoice, Packing List, Bill of Lading, Certificate of Origin, CE/ISO certificates (if needed), and official Persian translations of technical documents.
How is a rolling mill valued?
By technology, brand, year of manufacture, capacity, stand configuration, and physical condition (for used units). Proper valuation prevents legal and tax disputes.
What are the customs duties for these machines?
Generally 10 to 15 percent of machinery value; however, it varies by tariff line, country of origin, and agreements.
Multimedia suggestions
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Summary & call to action
Clearing rolling mills and rolls is a specialized process due to technical sensitivities, precise HS classification, accurate valuation, and required permits. With practical experience and an expert team, Saba Tarkhis moves your process forward swiftly, accurately, and in full compliance.
Request expert consultation Get a proformaSpecialized customs services by Saba Brokerage
- Specialized services for clearing rolling mills and rolls comprise precise, expert actions that help clients complete clearance with minimal time and cost. These services include:
Pre-clearance expert consulting: Our specialist team provides precise advice on tariff determination, document review, and obtaining required permits, accompanying clients at every stage to ensure all legal and financial aspects are correctly observed.
Preparation and compilation of required documents: All documents needed for clearance including commercial invoices, standards certificates, and technical documentation are prepared and compiled accurately and quickly to prevent potential issues.
Follow-up of administrative and customs procedures: Given the complexity of customs processes and the need for repeated follow-ups, all administrative and customs stages are handled swiftly and cost-effectively. This ensures no delays occur in clearing goods.
Transport and insurance services: In cooperation with reputable international carriers and insurers, we provide full services from origin to destination and insure rolling mills so clients can complete shipping and clearance with peace of mind.
Financial and analytical reporting: We provide detailed financial and analytical reports on clearance costs and forecasts related to import and export of machinery. These help clients make better economic decisions and avoid unnecessary costs.
Speed and accuracy in clearance: Leveraging modern technologies and close cooperation with customs, we complete clearance in the shortest possible time with high accuracy so clients receive their goods on time.
These comprehensive, professional services are provided by an experienced team fully familiar with customs laws and regulations, ensuring your goods reach you under the best conditions and in the shortest possible time.
