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Customs Clearance of Isocyanates (HS Code + Documents & Transport Requirements)

Isocyanates customs clearance is one of the critical stages in the supply chain of chemical materials required by various industries. Due to their key role in producing polyurethane, flexible and rigid foams, industrial adhesives, paints, and coatings, isocyanates are widely used across major industries. Because of their unique chemical properties, these compounds pose potential hazards during transport and storage, which necessitates strict adherence to safety standards and customs regulations.
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1) Isocyanate Categories & HS Tariff Codes (HS Code)

Isocyanates, due to diversity in composition and chemical structure, are grouped into several main categories. The most common and widely used are Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate (MDI) and Toluene Diisocyanate (TDI). Each chemical compound has its specific HS tariff code that governs its import and export procedures.
HS tariff codes for isocyanates include:
MDI (Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate): tariff code 29291090
TDI (Toluene Diisocyanate): tariff code 29291030
Accurate classification and correct identification of the HS code in import/export documents helps avoid legal issues, misclassification, and potential delays.
Commodity Short Description HS Code
MDI (Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate) Key raw material for polyurethane & rigid/flexible foams 29291090
TDI (Toluene Diisocyanate) Widely used in flexible foam, coatings, and adhesives 29291030

Final subheading selection depends on grade, purity, packaging, and end use.

2) Transport & Storage Notes for Isocyanates

Because isocyanates are highly reactive with water/moisture, they require specific storage and transport conditions. The most important points are:
Temperature control: Store at low, stable temperatures. At elevated temperatures, these materials decompose and may react with moisture, producing carbon dioxide gas. Use cooling systems and dedicated equipment during transport.
Moisture-proof packaging: Packaging must prevent moisture ingress. Water-resistant, double-layer solutions are common practices to maintain safety.
Specialized carriers: Due to sensitivity, use specialized carriers experienced with hazardous chemicals, complying with international transport and storage standards to ensure safety and speed.

3) Special Conditions for Importing & Exporting Isocyanates

Isocyanates are essential chemicals for many industries, and their import/export is significant due to wide applications in polyurethane and industrial foams. Given their chemical reactivity and sensitivity in handling/storage, specific regulations must be followed during import and export.
Isocyanates import volume into Iran
To supply domestic polyurethane and foam industries, Iran’s isocyanates imports reach thousands of tons annually. Volumes depend on industrial demand growth and polyurethane-related production. According to official customs data, more than 20 thousand tons of isocyanates are imported into Iran each year.
Exports of isocyanates from Iran are very limited because most of these materials are consumed domestically; direct imports predominantly come from major producers such as China, Germany, and South Korea.

4) Global Players & Isocyanates Market Flow

Top isocyanates exporters
China, Germany, the United States, Japan, and South Korea are among the largest producers/exporters. With advanced technology and high capacity, they play a pivotal role in global supply. China is the largest producer/exporter, a key source for both developing and industrialized countries. Germany and the U.S., emphasizing advanced technology and quality, also hold major export shares.
Major importers
Developing and industrial countries are major importers due to high demand for polyurethane-based products and foams. Notable importers include India, Türkiye, Brazil, Mexico, and Iran—driven by growth in automotive, construction, and home appliance sectors. Iran, due to strong domestic demand, is a key importer in the region.
Global market size
Because of wide industrial applications, market value is substantial. It is estimated that the global isocyanates market will reach around 50 billion USD by 2027. Growth is fueled by demand from automotive, furniture, construction, and other polyurethane-related industries.

5) Best Practices for Isocyanates Customs Clearance

Given the sensitivity and strict compliance requirements, choosing the right approach is crucial. Key factors include:
Use professional customs brokers: Experienced brokers who know chemical-specific rules can ensure a fast, trouble-free process.
Complete, accurate documentation: Prepare Invoice, Certificate of Origin, Certificate of Analysis, and required import permits fully and correctly to avoid delays.
Use e-customs systems: Electronic submission and tracking speeds up processing and provides real-time visibility.
Select specialized carriers: Choose reputable carriers experienced with hazardous chemicals to ensure safe, timely transport.

6) Required Documents for Isocyanates Clearance

The following commercial, technical, and regulatory documents are typically required for clearing hazardous chemicals like isocyanates:
1. Commercial Invoice
Must include:
Product name/type (e.g., MDI, TDI, etc.)
Quantity/weight
Unit & total price
Payment terms
Full seller/buyer details
2. Certificate of Origin (CO)
Identifies the exporting country for tariff/legal purposes; usually issued by the Chamber of Commerce of the exporting country.
3. Certificate of Analysis (COA)
Issued by the manufacturer or an accredited lab; details composition, purity percentage, and physical properties.
4. Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)
Contains safety data and hazards, guidance for safe handling/storage, and emergency measures.
5. Environmental Permit
Importing hazardous chemicals like isocyanates requires a permit from the Environmental Protection Organization.
6. Customs Declaration
Completed by the importer/broker with full details, value, and final destination.
7. Transport Insurance Policy
Mandatory to cover risks during transit of hazardous chemicals.
8. Bill of Lading (B/L)
Issued by the carrier detailing shipment method, conditions, and destination; used for handover at customs.
9. Inspection Certificate
Sometimes required from an accredited inspection company to confirm conformity with standards.
10. Standards Permit (if applicable)
If subject to specific standards, a permit from the National Standards Organization or relevant body may be required.

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Process explanation for clearing this product

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the HS codes for MDI and TDI?

For MDI typically 29291090 and for TDI typically 29291030; final selection depends on technical specs/grade.

Which documents are required to clear isocyanates?

Invoice, CO, COA, MSDS, Bill of Lading, Insurance, Customs Declaration, Environmental Permit, and if needed a Standards Permit.

What are proper transport/storage conditions?

Low and stable temperature control, moisture-proof packaging, and transport by specialized hazardous-materials carriers under international standards.

    Saba Brokerage’s Specialized Services for Isocyanates Clearance

    Saba Brokerage, as a reputable and leading firm in chemical customs clearance—especially isocyanates—provides dedicated, specialized services to streamline the process for clients. With a team versed in the latest customs rules and updates, we manage every step to prevent issues or delays. Our specialized services include:

    Advisory & documentation: Support in preparing and completing all documents, including Commercial Invoice, Certificate of Origin, and COA.
    Obtaining permits: Pursuing essential permits from the Environmental Protection Organization and other relevant bodies.
    Continuous follow-up: Real-time monitoring of clearance status and quick resolutions to any issues.
    Cost & time optimization: Reducing clearance time and costs via expertise and professional networks.
    Specialized transport services: Ensuring safe isocyanates transport in cooperation with reputable carriers.
    Leveraging our experience and expertise, we comprehensively cover your isocyanates clearance needs to deliver maximum satisfaction.

    Contact our experts for more information.

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