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Customs clearance of paper & paperboard in Iran (HS Codes + documents & permits)
Customs clearance of various types of paper and paperboard Customs clearance of various types of paper and paperboard is a sensitive and complex process that requires full awareness of customs laws and regulations, import and export tariffs, as well as special conditions related to importing and exporting these products. Paper and paperboard are vital raw materials in various industries including printing, packaging, book production, periodicals, and commercial/industrial packaging, and their import must be carried out carefully and in compliance with specific principles to minimize any delays and problems in the clearance process.
For time and cost estimation of customs clearance of paper & paperboard, contact the experts at Saba Tarkhis.
Immediate Free Consultation1) Categories and applications of paper & paperboard
Below are the categories of paper and paperboard and their related tariff codes (HS Codes) along with the main applications of each type. These categories provide a better understanding of market needs for paper and paperboard across different industries:
1. Uncoated writing and printing paper
HS Code: 4811
Applications: This type is commonly used in printing and publishing books, newspapers, magazines, and other printed materials. Due to its high quality and good ink absorption, writing paper is suitable for printing texts and images at medium to high quality.
Features: Smooth, uncoated surface suitable for printing and writing.
2. Coated paper (Glossy)
HS Code: 4810
Applications: Used for high-quality catalogs, luxury magazines, brochures, and advertisements. This paper has a glossy, smooth surface that increases the sharpness of printed images.
Features: Glossy/laminated surface, ideal for high-quality image printing with fine details.
3. Kraft paper
HS Code: 4819
Applications: Due to high strength, kraft is used in packaging industrial products and producing strong paper sacks. It is also used for making envelopes and shipping cartons.
Features: Very strong, recyclable, and highly tear-resistant.
4. Corrugated paperboard
HS Code: 4808
Applications: Used to make cartons and packaging boxes for various products including industrial and consumer goods.
Features: Multi-layer, fluted structure providing very high strength; suitable for moving and transporting goods.
5. Laminated & fancy paperboard
HS Code: 4811
Applications: Used in luxury and decorative packaging such as gift boxes, premium book covers, and promotional products.
Features: Laminated, glossy surface; moisture resistance and attractive appearance.
6. Special industrial paper
HS Code: varies by type (e.g., 4802 for oil-absorbent papers)
Applications: Used in specific industries such as filter production, oil-absorbent papers, thermal papers for ATMs and receipts, and specialized packaging.
Features: Depending on the application, these papers may be heat-resistant, absorbent, or water-repellent.
7. Recycled paper
HS Code: 4707
Applications: Used to produce a variety of products such as low-cost writing paper, cartons, and recycled packaging. Due to environmental benefits and reduced production costs, recycled papers are favored across industries.
Features: Eco-friendly, cheaper than virgin papers; quality varies based on recycled content.
8. Wallpaper paper
HS Code: 4814
Applications: Used as a decorative product in interior design and usually comes with diverse patterns and colors.
Features: Resistant to moisture and temperature changes; attractive, varied appearance.
9. Sanitary paperboard
HS Code: 4818
Applications: Used in sanitary products such as tissues, paper towels, and packaging for hygiene items.
Features: Soft and absorbent; suitable for everyday sanitary products.
10. Thermal paper
HS Code: 4811
Applications: Used in fax machines, ATMs, thermal printers, and retail receipts. Thermal paper is valued for inkless printing capability.
Features: Heat-sensitive; fast printing without ink.
1. Uncoated writing and printing paper
HS Code: 4811
Applications: This type is commonly used in printing and publishing books, newspapers, magazines, and other printed materials. Due to its high quality and good ink absorption, writing paper is suitable for printing texts and images at medium to high quality.
Features: Smooth, uncoated surface suitable for printing and writing.
2. Coated paper (Glossy)
HS Code: 4810
Applications: Used for high-quality catalogs, luxury magazines, brochures, and advertisements. This paper has a glossy, smooth surface that increases the sharpness of printed images.
Features: Glossy/laminated surface, ideal for high-quality image printing with fine details.
3. Kraft paper
HS Code: 4819
Applications: Due to high strength, kraft is used in packaging industrial products and producing strong paper sacks. It is also used for making envelopes and shipping cartons.
Features: Very strong, recyclable, and highly tear-resistant.
4. Corrugated paperboard
HS Code: 4808
Applications: Used to make cartons and packaging boxes for various products including industrial and consumer goods.
Features: Multi-layer, fluted structure providing very high strength; suitable for moving and transporting goods.
5. Laminated & fancy paperboard
HS Code: 4811
Applications: Used in luxury and decorative packaging such as gift boxes, premium book covers, and promotional products.
Features: Laminated, glossy surface; moisture resistance and attractive appearance.
6. Special industrial paper
HS Code: varies by type (e.g., 4802 for oil-absorbent papers)
Applications: Used in specific industries such as filter production, oil-absorbent papers, thermal papers for ATMs and receipts, and specialized packaging.
Features: Depending on the application, these papers may be heat-resistant, absorbent, or water-repellent.
7. Recycled paper
HS Code: 4707
Applications: Used to produce a variety of products such as low-cost writing paper, cartons, and recycled packaging. Due to environmental benefits and reduced production costs, recycled papers are favored across industries.
Features: Eco-friendly, cheaper than virgin papers; quality varies based on recycled content.
8. Wallpaper paper
HS Code: 4814
Applications: Used as a decorative product in interior design and usually comes with diverse patterns and colors.
Features: Resistant to moisture and temperature changes; attractive, varied appearance.
9. Sanitary paperboard
HS Code: 4818
Applications: Used in sanitary products such as tissues, paper towels, and packaging for hygiene items.
Features: Soft and absorbent; suitable for everyday sanitary products.
10. Thermal paper
HS Code: 4811
Applications: Used in fax machines, ATMs, thermal printers, and retail receipts. Thermal paper is valued for inkless printing capability.
Features: Heat-sensitive; fast printing without ink.
2) Special conditions for import & export of paper and paperboard
Special conditions for import and export of paper and paperboard Import and export of paper and paperboard to Iran are carried out under special and complex conditions, and non-compliance can lead to clearance delays or even returns. Given the importance of paper and paperboard in industries such as publishing, packaging, and printing, adherence to specific regulations in this field is crucial. Some of these conditions are reviewed below.
1. Legal restrictions and protective tariffs
Legal restrictions and protective tariffs In some cases, to support domestic production, import tariffs for certain types of paper and paperboard are increased. These tariff changes may be applied based on the country’s economic and trade policies. Importers must stay continuously updated with customs laws and new tariffs to avoid problems during clearance. For example, during periods of increased domestic production of paper and paperboard, protective tariffs may be raised to limit imports.
2. Environmental standards
Environmental standards Paper and paperboard—especially those produced from recycled or industrial materials—must comply with environmental standards. The use of harmful chemicals in production may result in import bans to Iran. Therefore, importers must ensure their products conform to Iranian environmental standards and other international authorities.
3. Quality and international standards
Quality and international standards Writing/printing papers and similar products must be imported in accordance with international standards. These include print quality, strength, and environmental standards. Imports are typically required to be certified by reputable international bodies or relevant quality organizations.
3) Volume of paper & paperboard imports and exports to Iran
Volume of imports and exports of paper and paperboard to Iran Iran is one of the largest importers of paper and paperboard in the region. Due to broad market demand—especially in publishing, printing, and packaging—annual imports reach millions of tons. In recent years, the main exporting countries to Iran have included China, Indonesia, South Korea, and Turkey. According to recent years’ data, paper and paperboard imports to Iran are estimated on average between 1 and 1.5 million tons per year. This includes various types such as writing paper, coated paper, industrial papers, and paperboard. On the other hand, exports of domestically produced paperboards to neighboring countries like Iraq and Afghanistan take place, but export share is much lower compared to imports.
4) Global turnover of paper & paperboard
Global turnover of paper and paperboard The paper and paperboard industry is one of the world’s largest manufacturing sectors, with annual trade volume reaching hundreds of billions of dollars. More than 400 million tons of paper and paperboard are produced annually worldwide. A large share enters global markets and is consumed by countries dependent on imports.
Paper & paperboard exporting countries
Paper and paperboard exporting countries The main exporters are China, Indonesia, South Korea, Finland, and Canada—among the world’s largest producers and exporters. With access to wood resources and advanced production technologies, these countries hold a large share of the global market. China and Indonesia are particularly known as the largest exporters to Iran.
Paper & paperboard importing countries
Paper and paperboard importing countries The main importers are European countries and North America, due to high paper consumption in printing, publishing, and packaging. In Asia, Japan and India are also among the largest importers.
5) Documents required for customs clearance of paper & paperboard
For customs clearance of paper and paperboard, having complete and accurate documentation is essential. These documents must be properly and fully prepared and submitted to avoid problems and delays in clearance.
1. Proforma Invoice
The first document needed to initiate the import process. Issued by the seller/supplier, it includes details such as type of paper/paperboard, quantity, unit price, and payment terms. This is the basis for subsequent clearance steps.
2. Commercial Invoice
Issued after finalizing the transaction, it contains full details of the goods, including type, quantity, price, and total value. This is the main document for calculating customs duties and taxes.
3. Packing List
Contains information on how the goods are packed, number of packages, and weight of each package. It helps customs officers inspect goods properly and verify that information matches reality.
4. Bill of Lading
Issued by the carrier, it indicates ownership of the goods during transport. It includes details of shipper, consignee, and transport method, and is issued for sea/air/land modes as applicable.
5. Certificate of Origin
Issued by the chamber of commerce in the country of origin, it proves where the goods were produced or processed. It is vital for determining customs tariffs and using preferential rates.
6. Order Registration Permit
Obtained from Iran’s Trade Promotion Organization; required for importing goods into Iran. It records goods details, import quantity, and origin country; without it, import is not possible.
7. Certificate of Compliance
For certain types—especially industrial and recycled papers—submission may be required. It confirms production according to international standards and verifies quality.
8. Health & environmental permits
For specific papers such as recycled grades, health and environmental approvals may be required. Issued by relevant organizations, they ensure imports pose no risk to the environment or public health.
9. Customs Declaration
Must be completed carefully and submitted to customs. It includes full information on the goods, their value, and tariff; any error can cause delays.
10. Receipt of duties/taxes payment
After assessment, the importer must pay customs duties and taxes and submit the receipt. Payment is based on the tariff set for the paper/paperboard.
11. Special permits (if required)
Certain specific types—such as thermal or sanitary papers—may require special permits that must be obtained in advance.
1. Proforma Invoice
The first document needed to initiate the import process. Issued by the seller/supplier, it includes details such as type of paper/paperboard, quantity, unit price, and payment terms. This is the basis for subsequent clearance steps.
2. Commercial Invoice
Issued after finalizing the transaction, it contains full details of the goods, including type, quantity, price, and total value. This is the main document for calculating customs duties and taxes.
3. Packing List
Contains information on how the goods are packed, number of packages, and weight of each package. It helps customs officers inspect goods properly and verify that information matches reality.
4. Bill of Lading
Issued by the carrier, it indicates ownership of the goods during transport. It includes details of shipper, consignee, and transport method, and is issued for sea/air/land modes as applicable.
5. Certificate of Origin
Issued by the chamber of commerce in the country of origin, it proves where the goods were produced or processed. It is vital for determining customs tariffs and using preferential rates.
6. Order Registration Permit
Obtained from Iran’s Trade Promotion Organization; required for importing goods into Iran. It records goods details, import quantity, and origin country; without it, import is not possible.
7. Certificate of Compliance
For certain types—especially industrial and recycled papers—submission may be required. It confirms production according to international standards and verifies quality.
8. Health & environmental permits
For specific papers such as recycled grades, health and environmental approvals may be required. Issued by relevant organizations, they ensure imports pose no risk to the environment or public health.
9. Customs Declaration
Must be completed carefully and submitted to customs. It includes full information on the goods, their value, and tariff; any error can cause delays.
10. Receipt of duties/taxes payment
After assessment, the importer must pay customs duties and taxes and submit the receipt. Payment is based on the tariff set for the paper/paperboard.
11. Special permits (if required)
Certain specific types—such as thermal or sanitary papers—may require special permits that must be obtained in advance.
6) Sample HS Code table for paper & paperboard
| Type | Application | HS Code |
|---|---|---|
| Uncoated writing/printing paper | Books, periodicals, press | 4811 |
| Coated glossy paper | Catalogs, brochures, luxury magazines | 4810 |
| Kraft paper | Paper sacks, heavy packaging | 4819 |
| Corrugated paperboard | Cartons and shipping boxes | 4808 |
| Laminated/fancy paperboard | Gift boxes, luxury packaging | 4811 |
| Special industrial papers | Filters, thermal, oil-absorbent | Varies (e.g., 4802/4811) |
| Recycled paper | Low-cost writing, cartons & packaging | 4707 |
| Wallpaper paper | Interior decoration | 4814 |
| Sanitary paperboard | Tissues, paper towels, hygiene | 4818 |
| Thermal paper | Fax, retail receipts, ATM | 4811 |
Exact classification depends on basis weight (gsm), coated/uncoated, texture, fiber type, recycled content, roll/sheet size, and end use.
Need precise HS classification, document preparation, and standards monitoring? Our team manages the file end-to-end.
Submit Proforma RequestFrequently Asked Questions
How are HS Codes for paper & paperboard determined?
Based on type (writing/coated/corrugated/sanitary…), coating status, basis weight, fiber composition, and application. Examples: 4810, 4811, 4808, 4707, 4814, 4818.
What documents are required for clearance?
Per your text: proforma invoice, commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, certificate of origin, order registration permit, certificate of compliance (if needed), environmental/health permits (for some items), declaration, duties receipt.
What is the impact of protective tariffs on imports?
During periods of domestic-industry support, import duties on certain items may increase; continuous monitoring of tariff changes is essential to avoid delays and extra costs.
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Conclusion & Call to Action
Customs clearance of paper and paperboard, due to technical diversity and tariff changes, requires precise HS determination, document preparation, and adherence to environmental/quality standards. With practical experience, Saba Tarkhis advances your process quickly and in full compliance.
Request Expert Consultation Get a Clearance ProformaSpecial customs clearance services by Saba Brokerage
As one of the most reputable customs brokers in Iran, Saba Brokerage offers special services for clearing various types of paper and paperboard. With a specialized and experienced team, this brokerage carries out complex customs procedures quickly and accurately and helps clients clear their goods in the shortest possible time.
These special services include:
Specialized consulting in selecting the type of paper/paperboard and determining the appropriate HS Code: our consultants review the type of paper and paperboard and provide solutions for correct product selection and import process optimization. This consulting helps determine the proper HS Code and comply with customs rules and regulations.
Follow-up of clearance stages: all administrative and customs steps—including obtaining necessary permits and completing clearance stages—are handled with careful follow-up. Our team continuously reviews your file status and takes necessary actions at the right time.
Financial solutions and reducing customs costs: through detailed tariff analysis and using preferential rates, we help minimize import costs—especially important amid tariff/protective changes.
Fast and safe transportation of goods: by continuously tracking transport stages, we ensure goods reach the final destination as quickly and safely as possible. Services include coordination with carriers and monitoring transport through to final delivery.
By using our professional services, paper and paperboard importers can confidently navigate complex customs procedures and receive their goods without any issues or delays.
