Customs Clearance of Insulated Wires and Cables | HS Code, Documents, Standards, and Tariffs

Customs Clearance of Insulated Wires and Cables in Iran (HS Code + Documents and Standards)

Clearing insulated wires and cables from customs is one of the essential stages in importing and exporting electrical and electronic equipment. Owing to their wide applications across various industries—including construction, telecommunications, automotive, and power networks—these products play a key role in infrastructure development and technological advancement. Given the technical sensitivities and legal requirements, customs clearance of insulated wires and cables demands comprehensive knowledge of customs regulations, national and international standards, and optimal clearance methods.

For estimating the time and cost of clearing insulated wires and cables, contact the experts at Saba Tarkhis.

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1) Applications and Types of Insulated Wires and Cables

Insulated wires and cables are among the most fundamental components of electrical and telecommunications networks, playing a vital role in transmitting power and data. Depending on the application and operating environment, these products are divided into various types, each with its own features and standards.

Low Voltage (LV) and High Voltage (HV) Power Cables

Low-voltage cables: These cables are typically designed to transmit electrical current at voltages below 1 kilovolt (kV) and are used in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. The insulation materials are usually PVC or XLPE, which provide high resistance to heat and corrosion.

High-voltage cables: These are used to transmit electrical currents at high voltages (generally above 33 kV). Due to their ability to carry high electrical loads, they require advanced insulations such as XLPE or EPR that, in addition to thermal resistance, also withstand partial discharge and external electrical effects.

Telecommunication and Coaxial Cables

Telecommunication cables: Designed to transmit telecommunication data such as voice, video, and digital signals between telecom stations and end-user devices. These cables may be twisted pair or fiber optic and are selected based on data type and transmission distance.

Coaxial cables: Commonly used in television networks and video systems. A coaxial cable has a specific structure comprising a central conductor, an insulating layer, a metallic shield, and an outer jacket, which helps reduce noise and signal interference.

Fiber Optic Cables

Fiber optic cables: Composed of optical strands (fibers) made of glass or plastic, responsible for transmitting data at very high speeds and bandwidth. Thanks to immunity to electromagnetic noise and high data capacity, they are widely used in internet, telecom networks, and data center systems.

Automotive Wires

Automotive wires: Used in vehicle electrical systems to transmit electrical current and data. These wires must offer high resistance to vibration, heat, chemicals, and abrasion. Special insulations such as PVC, XLPE, or silicone are typically used to ensure performance under harsh conditions.

2) Key Points for Clearing Insulated Wires and Cables from Iranian Customs

1. Customs Tariff (HS Code)

Each type of insulated wire and cable, based on its materials, operating voltage, and application, falls under different customs tariff lines. Accurate HS Code determination is not only legally mandatory but also directly impacts clearance costs and speed. For example:

PVC-insulated power cables: classified under HS Code 8544.49.00. This code identifies the cable type based on insulation, conductor material, and voltage range.

Automotive wires: depending on their specific use (e.g., engine control systems or lighting systems), they may fall under different HS Codes.

An error in HS Code determination can lead to incorrect duties, financial penalties, and even seizure of goods by customs. Therefore, it is advisable to consult experienced experts for accurate tariff classification.

2. Mandatory Standards

All imported wires and cables must conform to national and international standards. These standards ensure product quality and safety, and compliance is essential for entry into domestic and international markets. In Iran, national standards are overseen by ISIRI (Institute of Standards and Industrial Research of Iran). Key international standards include those of the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), German standards (VDE), and British standards (BS).

Practical example: High-voltage power cables must comply with IEC 60228/60502 and related insulation requirements, which specify technical characteristics for insulation, conductors, and mechanical protections.

If the goods do not conform to these standards, customs may prevent clearance, and the goods may require rework or return to the country of origin.

3. Countries of Origin and Destination

The quality and country of origin of wires and cables can greatly influence the clearance process. Products manufactured in European countries often command higher value due to stricter standards, and their import conditions may differ. For example:
Wires and cables made in Germany and Japan: widely favored due to high-quality standards.
Products from China and Türkiye: commonly constitute a large portion of Iran’s imports due to competitive pricing and rapid supply.
Selecting the right country of origin can help optimize import costs and improve the quality of imported goods.

3) Customs Duties, Import/Export Conditions, and the Iranian Market

Customs duties for wires and cables (common examples): Tariffs for insulated wires and cables are set according to their type and material.

Plastic-insulated (PVC) power cables: duties typically range between 10–20% (depending on conductor material, operating voltage, and end use).
Fiber optic cables: usually lower, around 5–10%.
Automotive wires: may vary—and sometimes be higher—depending on application and insulation (e.g., silicone or XLPE).

Some products may benefit from preferential or duty-exempt treatment under specific conditions (based on trade agreements and end use). For instance, importing LV power cables from certain neighboring countries may be subject to lower duties.

4) Global Market and Iran’s Position

The global market for insulated wires and cables is expanding rapidly due to the swift growth of electrical and electronic industries, especially in developing countries. China, the United States, Japan, and Germany are among the largest producers and exporters of these products.

China: as the world’s largest producer, saturates the market with competitively priced products. Germany and Japan: owing to high-quality manufacturing, hold significant shares in specialized markets such as luxury automotive and advanced electrical systems.

Iran is also a major importer of insulated wires and cables, meeting its needs mainly through imports from China, Türkiye, and the United Arab Emirates. The rapid growth of the construction sector, development of telecom and power networks, and increasing demand in automotive and electronics industries have created substantial demand for these products in Iran.

5) Iran’s Import and Export Volumes

According to available statistics, Iran annually imports a large volume of insulated wires and cables. These imports stem from growing needs across economic sectors such as construction, power and telecom network development, and rising demand in various industries.

Construction industry: one of the main consumers of insulated wires and cables and a major absorber of imports.
Telecommunications: with fast network expansion, imports of fiber optic cables have grown markedly.

Import volumes of wires and cables in recent years have fluctuated due to exchange-rate volatility and sanctions, yet they still constitute an important share of domestic supply.

6) Mandatory Documents for Clearance + Best Practice

Required Documents and Paperwork

To clear insulated wires and cables from customs, a set of essential documents must be submitted completely and accurately. These documents play a vital role in facilitating clearance and preventing potential issues.
Commercial Invoice (CI):
The commercial invoice includes full information such as the seller’s and buyer’s name and address, detailed description of goods, quantity or weight, unit and total price, and payment and shipping terms. This document must fully match the information in the customs declaration.

Packing List (PL):
This document specifies packing details, number of packages, type and quantity of each package, net and gross weight, and package dimensions. The packing list helps customs inspect and verify the shipment.

Certificate of Origin (CoO):
This certificate indicates the country where the goods were manufactured. It can be important for determining customs duties and eligibility for preferential or exempted tariffs.

Certificate of Conformity (CoC):
This certificate demonstrates compliance of imported wires and cables with national and international standards such as ISIRI and IEC. Failure to provide it may lead to seizure or return of the goods to the country of origin.

Customs Declaration:
The declaration contains full information about the goods, customs value, tariff (HS Code), shipping terms, and other import details. Completing it correctly is essential to avoid issues during clearance.

Bill of Lading (B/L):
This transport document sets out the shipper’s and consignee’s names and addresses, loading and delivery places, mode of transport (air/sea/land), and shipment details. The B/L must be consistent with other documents such as the CI and PL.

Permits from relevant authorities:
Depending on the type of wires and cables, permits may be required from authorities such as the Ministry of Industry, Mine and Trade (MIMT), the National Standards Organization (ISIRI), or the Ministry of Energy. These permits must be obtained prior to customs entry and submitted.

Insurance Policy:
This document indicates that the goods are insured against various risks during transport. It is crucial in case of loss or damage.

Order Registration Slip:
This confirms that the purchase has been registered and approved according to national import regulations. It is issued through relevant systems such as the Comprehensive Trade System and is mandatory to complete the import process.

Best Practice

Pre-technical review (Type/Voltage/Jacket/Shield) and HS Code determination before order registration.
Align mandatory standards and obtain CoC/test reports (IEC/ISIRI).
Reconcile shipping documents (B/L, CI, PL) and perform accurate valuation to prevent tariff disputes.
Use a broker specialized in electrical goods to reduce clearance lead time.

Product	Short Description	HS Code
PVC-insulated LV power cable	PVC insulation; building/industrial	8544.49.00
High-voltage cable with XLPE/EPR insulation	High voltage; shielded/armored	8544.60.xx
Coaxial cable	Central conductor + shield	8544.20.xx
Fiber optic cable	Single/Multi-mode; telecom/data center	8529.10/9001.10*
Automotive wires	PVC/XLPE/silicone insulation	8544.30/8544.11

* Exact subheading depends on type/structure, grade, shield/armor, voltage, packaging, and end use.

Need precise HS Code classification, permits, and document preparation? Our team manages your wire and cable case end-to-end.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are common HS Codes for insulated wires and cables?

For plastic-insulated power cables, 8544.49.00 is common; however, the exact subheading may vary depending on the product’s voltage, insulation, shield/armor, and application.

Which standards are required for clearance?

As applicable: ISIRI (national standard), IEC standards (such as IEC 60228/60502), and for some uses VDE/BS standards. Providing test reports or a Certificate of Conformity is recommended.

What are the import duties for wires and cables?

Typically 10–20% for PVC cables and about 5–10% for fiber optics. The final rate depends on type/application and any preferential agreements.

What documents are needed for clearance?

At minimum: CI, PL, Certificate of Origin, Customs Declaration, B/L, Order Registration, Insurance Policy, and in many cases a Conformity Certificate (ISIRI/IEC) and permits from relevant authorities.

Media Suggestions

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Alt Text: Customs clearance of insulated wires and cables in Iran | HS 8544.49.00
Caption: “Steps to clear insulated wires and cables: from HS to ISIRI/IEC standards.”
Infographic: “Checklist of documents, HS, and standards requirements for wires & cables.”

Summary & Call to Action

Clearing wires and cables—given technical diversity (insulation type, voltage, shield/armor) and standards requirements—demands accuracy in HS Code determination and complete documentation. With practical experience, Saba Tarkhis accelerates your process in full compliance with regulations.

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Special Customs Services by Saba Brokerage

Saba Brokerage, as a leading company in customs clearance, offers distinctive services to importers and exporters of insulated wires and cables. These services include:

Specialized consulting: Our team of seasoned experts provides specialized advice on customs tariffs, national and international standards, and legal requirements for importing insulated wires and cables. This guidance helps you make the best decisions in import and export processes.
End-to-end clearance handling: From the moment goods enter customs to their release, all administrative and operational steps are pursued accurately and swiftly. This involves preparing and submitting documents, coordinating with customs, and liaising with relevant bodies so goods are cleared on time and without issues.
Cost reduction: Thanks to extensive experience and expertise in customs processes, the company can minimize clearance costs by using optimal methods and reducing unnecessary duties, thereby lowering import costs and improving profitability.
Fast delivery: A key advantage of partnering with us is speedy delivery. Through a wide transport network and efficient management, prompt and secure delivery of goods is ensured, boosting productivity and preventing unnecessary delays.
Post-clearance support: We also offer services after clearance. This includes financial and legal advice and practical solutions to improve your import/export processes, facilitating your business activities.

By choosing our services, you can benefit from a fast, safe, and cost-effective clearance process for insulated wires and cables. This cooperation enables you to confidently grow your business and make effective use of import and export opportunities.

Contact our experts for more information.

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