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Customs Clearance of Animal Fat/Oil: Steps, Permits, Tariffs (HS Code 1503) & Documents
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Customs clearance of animal fat/oil is one of the complex and sensitive processes in the import/export chain of food products. Animal fat/oil—mainly produced from the fat of cattle, sheep, goats, and other animals—has wide applications across industries including food, pharmaceuticals, and even cosmetics; therefore, strict compliance with laws and standards is required. Recognized as a strategic product in meeting the nation’s food needs, its clearance calls for familiarity with precise customs and sanitary regulations and guidelines.
For a quote on time and cost to clear animal fat/oil, contact the experts at Saba Tarkhis.
Fast, free consultation1) Detailed description of animal fat/oil & clearance features
Animal fats/oils are produced from the fats of cattle, sheep, goats, and other animals and are used in food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. For clearance, key specifications such as type of oil, purity and processing method, physical/chemical indices, brand, country of origin, net and gross weight, and manufacture/expiry dates must be accurately stated. Given the food nature, consumer health and safety take priority, and submitting sanitary and standards documentation is mandatory.
- Standard, hygienic packaging to prevent contamination and spoilage.
- Complete labeling in Persian, including ingredients, dates, and storage conditions.
- Laboratory analysis results aligned with national/international standards.
2) Types of animal fat/oil & uses
Beef tallow (Tallow)
Widely used in food industries (frying/formulations), pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics; control of free fatty acids and impurities is important.
Sheep oil
Used in certain traditional products and specific processing; odor and taste must be controlled in sensory/chemical analysis.
Other animal oils (goat, etc.)
Depending on the source, physicochemical properties vary, and choosing appropriate packaging/transport is important.
3) Key steps & considerations in clearing animal fat/oil
Quality control, analysis & quarantine
All consignments must undergo laboratory checks prior to entry to ensure compliance with Iran’s and international sanitary standards. In specific cases, the consignment is placed under sanitary quarantine periods before being released to market.
Packaging, labeling & storage
Proper packaging must prevent contamination/spoilage and clearly display information such as ingredients, manufacture/expiry dates, and storage conditions.
4) Customs tariff / HS Code Chapter 15: animal fats/oils
Under the HS system, animal fats/oils are generally classified under HS 1503. Selecting the exact subheading forms the basis for calculating import duties, charges, and any preferential rates.
| Type of oil | Short description | Suggested HS Code |
|---|---|---|
| Beef/animal tallow | Animal fats and oils in natural form | 1503 |
| Sheep oil & others | Other similar animal oils | 1503 |
* Depending on exact type, presentation form, and domestic regulations, tariff granularity and rates will vary.
5) Special import & export conditions for animal fat/oil
Iran, as one of the largest consumers of animal fats/oils in the region, supplies part of its needs via imports. Main exporting countries include India, New Zealand, Australia, France, the Netherlands, and Germany. Each offers different characteristics due to climatic diversity and husbandry methods.
Iran also exports animal fat/oil to neighboring markets; target countries include Iraq, Afghanistan, Qatar, the UAE, and Oman. Meeting the destination’s sanitary requirements is vital for export success.
6) Iran market: imports & exports
The volume of animal fat/oil imports to Iran varies based on market demand and domestic production. In general, Iran imports more than 10 thousand tons of animal fat/oil annually. On the export side, around 5 thousand tons per year are shipped to neighboring countries.
7) Taxes & duties; cost calculation
Given their food sensitivity, animal fats/oils are subject to import duties and related taxes. The calculation basis is generally CIF. In specific cases, preferential tariffs may apply or the tariff rate may be calculated by weight/volume.
8) Global market: major exporters & importers
Major global exporters include India, Australia, New Zealand, France, the Netherlands, and the United States. Major importers include China, Middle Eastern countries, Europe, the United States, and East Asian countries. In the Middle East, due to climatic conditions and limited livestock output, reliance on imports is high.
9) Required documents for clearing animal fat/oil
- Commercial invoice (Invoice)
- Bill of lading (Bill of Lading)
- Certificate of origin (Certificate of Origin)
- Veterinary health certificate (Veterinary Health Certificate)
- Analysis certificate (Analysis Certificate)
- Food and Drug Organization permit
- Proper labeling
- Insurance policy (Insurance Policy)
- Inspection certificate (Inspection Certificate)
- Import or export license
10) Fast clearance method in Iran + Saba Tarkhis special services
- Match goods with standards and determine HS 1503 precisely based on oil type.
- Prepare documents: invoice, bill of lading, certificate of origin, veterinary health certificate, analysis certificate, and Food & Drug Organization permit.
- Customs declaration and system registration; sampling and lab referral if required.
- Pay duties and charges based on tariff and CIF value.
- Obtain supplementary permits and respond to possible inspections.
- Exit formalities, license issuance, and final delivery.
Saba Tarkhis special services: Review and preparation of required documents, precise follow-up of clearance stages, specialized advice on tariffs and standards, extensive liaison with relevant bodies, and comprehensive services tailored to client needs.
Submit proforma requestKey points & practical recommendations
- Before purchase, finalize HS 1503 and labeling requirements with the seller.
- Obtain veterinary health and analysis certificates from reputable authorities and verify authenticity.
- Specify transport and storage conditions (temperature/hygiene) in the bill of lading and insurance policy.
- For exports, align with destination country standards in advance to avoid border holds.
| Type of oil | Clearance sensitivity | Control point | Suggested HS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beef tallow | High | FFA, impurities, odor | 1503 |
| Sheep oil | Medium | Sensory/chemical quality | 1503 |
| Other animal | Variable | Transport/packaging conditions | 1503 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HS Code for animal fat/oil and how does it affect tariffs?
Animal fats/oils are generally classified under HS Code 1503. This code is the basis for calculating import duties, charges, and applying any preferential rates.
What documents are required to clear animal fat/oil?
Invoice, bill of lading, certificate of origin, veterinary health certificate, analysis certificate, Food and Drug Organization permit, proper labeling, insurance policy, inspection certificate (where required), and import/export license.
Does an animal fat/oil consignment require quarantine?
In specific cases, based on risk assessment and instructions from health authorities, the consignment is placed under quarantine periods before market release.
Which countries are the main origins for importing animal fat/oil?
India, New Zealand, Australia, France, the Netherlands, and Germany are common origins for supplying animal fat/oil.
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Conclusion & call to action
Customs clearance of animal fat/oil—due to its food nature and quality sensitivities—requires meticulous attention to HS 1503 coding, preparation of sanitary documents, and conformity with national and international standards. By providing comprehensive services, we ensure that all your goods, including animal fats/oils, are cleared at the lowest cost and in the shortest possible time. Contact our experts for more information.
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