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Customs clearance of elements and isotopes in Iran (HS Code + documents and permits)
For estimating the time and cost of clearing elements and isotopes (radioactive/stable), contact the Saba Tarkhis experts.
Immediate free consultation1) Isotopes and how they differ from elements
2) Industrial and scientific applications of elements and isotopes
Medicine
- Radioactive isotopes: used in nuclear medicine for diagnosis and treatment. For instance, Iodine-131 is widely used for thyroid diseases, while Technetium-99m is used in many medical imaging procedures.
- Stable isotopes: used in metabolic tests to trace biological and physiological processes in the body.
Industry
- Quality control: radioactive isotopes are used in industrial processes to detect anomalies and control product quality. For example, Cobalt-60 is used in industrial irradiation devices for sterilizing medical materials.
- Geophysical analyses: stable isotopes are used in the analysis of rocks and subsurface minerals to identify energy and mineral resources.
Agriculture
Fertilizers and pesticides: stable isotopes are used to study the efficiency of fertilizers and pesticides and how plants absorb them.
Environmental research and archaeology
- Carbon-14: one of the most important isotopes used to determine the age of archaeological samples. It helps researchers determine the age of objects and organic materials.
- Oxygen and hydrogen isotopes: used in studying the water cycle and climate change.
3) Key points in clearing elements and isotopes
Import and export permits
Hazardous chemical elements: some elements such as mercury and its compounds are subject to strict restrictions due to environmental and health risks.
Packaging and transport
- Radioactive materials: packaging and transport must comply with IAEA guidelines and international transport regulations. Using shielded and secure containers with thick walls is essential.
- Reactive elements: certain chemicals like sodium and potassium, which react vigorously with water, must be packaged in oxygen-free, moisture-free environments.
HS Code (customs tariff)
Isotopes: tariff codes for radioactive isotopes are generally classified under HS Code 2844. This code includes all radioactive materials, including isotopes and their compounds.
Chemical elements: each chemical element has a specific HS Code. For example, mercury falls under code 2805.
Environmental and health regulations
- Stable and radioactive isotopes: compliance with environmental and health safety regulations in production, packaging, transport, and storage is essential. These include safety instructions to prevent leakage and release into the environment.
- Hazardous chemical elements: due to environmental risks, they are strictly supervised and must be transported according to international standards.
4) Sample HS Code table
| Goods | Short description | HS Code |
|---|---|---|
| Isotopes and radioactive materials | Radioactive isotopes and their compounds | 2844 |
| Mercury (example element) | Liquid metal; transport safety requirements | 2805 |
The final classification depends on form of supply, purity, end use, and technical/permit documentation.
5) Import and export volumes of elements and isotopes
Imports and exports of elements and isotopes heavily depend on industrial and medical demand. Developed countries are mainly exporters of isotopes and complex chemicals, while developing countries import these materials for use in their industries.
United States, Russia, and France: among the largest exporters of radioactive and stable isotopes worldwide.
Japan, China, and India: among the largest importers of these materials.
6) Special conditions for import and export
Important note: Clearance of specific elements and radioactive isotopes is subject to obtaining specialized permits from competent authorities and complying with international safety protocols.
Request proforma invoiceClearance of special goods is possible upon obtaining the required special permits.
Frequently asked questions
How are HS Codes for isotopes and elements determined?
Radioactive isotopes and materials are classified under 2844. Other elements (e.g., mercury) have their own specific HS (example: 2805); the final line is determined by technical documents and end use.
What permits are required to import radioactive isotopes?
Permits from the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran, the Ministry of Health, and compliance with IAEA guidelines and dangerous goods transport regulations (IMDG/ICAO/ADR).
What are the transport requirements for reactive elements (e.g., sodium/potassium)?
Packaging in a dry/inert environment, isolation from moisture, hazard labeling, and use of containers approved by international standards.
Multimedia suggestion
- Image file name:
elements-isotopes-customs-clearance-iran.jpg - Alt Text: Customs clearance of elements and isotopes in Iran | HS 2844 and 2805
- Caption: “Permits, HS codes, and safe transport requirements for elements and isotopes”
- Infographic: “Roadmap for isotope clearance: permits → documents → inspection → release”
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Summary and call to action
Due to multi-agency permit and safety requirements, clearing elements and isotopes requires precise documentation planning and compliance with international standards. Saba Tarkhis leverages practical experience to process your case quickly and in full compliance.
Request expert consultation Get a customs-clearance proforma