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Iron Ore Customs Clearance in Iran (HS Code + Documents, Permits & Steps)
Iron ore, as one of the most fundamental raw materials in the steel industry and iron products manufacturing, holds a vital place in the supply chain of various industries. Due to its key role in economic development, it is considered one of the important commodities in international trade. The process of importing and exporting iron ore and clearing it from customs requires strict compliance with customs rules and regulations, submission of relevant documentation, and full awareness of tariff details and specific trade conditions.
For estimating the time and cost of iron ore clearance, contact the experts at Saba Tarkhis.
Instant Free Consultation1) Applications of Iron Ore in Various Industries
Iron ore is the primary material for steel production and is used across a wide range of industries. About 90 percent of iron ore extracted worldwide is dedicated to steel production, which is used in diverse industrial and commercial structures:
- Construction industry: Metal structures of buildings, bridges, dams, and steel frameworks are often made of steel produced from iron ore. Thanks to its high strength and durability, steel is the main material in large construction projects.
- Automotive industry: A major portion of car bodies and parts are made of steel directly derived and processed from iron ore.
- Industrial machinery: Heavy industrial machinery, transport equipment, and other industrial tools all depend on steel produced from iron ore.
- Home appliances: In manufacturing appliances such as refrigerators, washing machines, stoves, and other metal devices, steel is used for its high resistance and durability.
2) Iron Ore Customs Tariff (HS Code)
In global trade classification, iron ore is identified under tariff code 2601. This code includes various forms such as crude iron ore, screened/graded ore, iron-bearing ore, and even certain primary derivatives extracted from iron ore. However, customs duties on iron ore may vary based on the type of ore, its purity level, and also countries’ trade and economic policies. Some countries apply variable tariffs on iron ore imports to protect domestic production, or define variable export duties to regulate domestic and foreign markets.
| Goods | Short Description | HS Code |
|---|---|---|
| Iron ore (crude/graded) | Primary input for steelmaking | 2601 |
Exact subheading and duties depend on type, purity, lump/concentrate, and trade policies of origin/destination.
3) Documents Required for Iron Ore Clearance
Clearing iron ore from customs requires a set of documents that confirm the legality and validity of the import or export. Some essential documents include:
- Commercial Invoice (Invoice): The invoice specifies details related to price, quantity, type of transaction, and payment terms, and must be completed accurately.
- Packing List: This list shows the exact weight and packaging specifications of the shipment and is necessary for determining customs tariffs and transport-related costs.
- Certificate of Origin: Issued by the chamber of commerce in the country of origin, it confirms the origin of the iron ore and is used to determine preferential tariffs in some countries.
- Bill of Lading: This document shows shipment details such as mode of transport, weight, and number of containers, and is used to prove ownership of the goods.
- Quality and Standards Certificates: Some countries especially for iron ore imports require quality and standards certificates issued by competent authorities, indicating compliance with international or domestic standards of the destination country.
- Ministry of Industry, Mine & Trade Permit: In Iran, importing and exporting iron ore requires a permit from the Ministry of Industry, Mine and Trade, which validates the transaction and may be subject to government restrictions.
4) Special Conditions for Iron Ore Import and Export
As a primary source of raw materials for the steel industry, iron ore plays a very important role not only in Iran but worldwide. Importing and exporting iron ore—especially in countries with extensive industrial output—are always in focus due to the high economic importance and direct impact on related industries.
Importing iron ore into Iran
Iran, as one of the world’s largest iron ore producers, has abundant reserves of this mineral. However, at times there is a need to import iron ore to meet domestic industrial demands. Steelmaking industries—the backbone of Iran’s industrial sector—rely on imports when domestic production cannot meet demand.
Key factors affecting Iran’s iron ore imports include:
- Quality of domestic output: In some cases, iron ore extracted in Iran may not meet certain industrial requirements due to quality or type, prompting imports from countries producing higher-quality ore.
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Global market conditions: World prices and demand also directly affect imports. For example, during periods of lower global prices, importing may be more cost-effective for some industries.
The main iron ore exporters to Iran are Australia and Brazil. Owing to rich mines and high-quality output, these two are known as the largest suppliers of iron ore to Iran.
Exporting iron ore from Iran
Iran is one of the major exporters of iron ore to international markets. The bulk of Iran’s iron ore exports go to Asian countries—especially China, India—and some European countries. The reasons are the high quality of Iranian ore and Iran’s favorable geographic position for exporting to key consumer markets.
China is considered the largest importer of Iranian iron ore. Given the vast needs of China’s steel industry, this country accounts for more than half of Iran’s iron ore exports. Demand from European countries and India also supports Iran’s export volumes.
5) Iran’s Iron Ore Import and Export Volumes
Iran’s import and export volumes of iron ore depend on multiple factors such as domestic demand, domestic production capacity, steel industry needs, and global market conditions. On average, Iran exports several million tons of iron ore to other countries annually. However, in some years imports are also needed to support industrial production.
In recent years, Iran’s iron ore exports have been around 20 to 25 million tons per year, of which more than 90 percent has been exported to China. Iron ore import volumes vary with domestic market conditions and industry needs and are usually smaller in scale than exports.
6) Global Circulation of Iron Ore
The global iron ore market is one of the largest mineral markets, and annual worldwide iron ore exchanges reach billions of tons. Major producing countries such as Australia, Brazil, and South Africa account for a large share of global iron ore exports. On the other hand, China, Japan, South Korea, and India are the biggest importers worldwide.
7) Major Iron Ore Exporters and Importers Worldwide
Major iron ore exporters worldwide
- Australia and Brazil are the largest iron ore exporters in the world. Australia alone, with massive mine output, accounts for over 50 percent of global exports.
- After Australia, Brazil ranks second, with a significant share of exports to Asian and European countries.
Major iron ore importers worldwide
- China is recognized as the world’s largest iron ore importer, accounting for more than 60 percent of total global imports.
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After China, countries such as Japan, South Korea, and India are among the largest importers; due to large steel industries, they have very high demand for this mineral.
Need precise HS classification, duty calculation, and a document checklist? Our team manages your case end-to-end.
Submit Proforma Request8) Best and Simplest Method for Iron Ore Clearance
Clearing iron ore from customs requires high precision and compliance with customs rules and regulations. The key steps include:
- Preparing the required documents: Including commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, bill of lading, and necessary permits.
- Submitting documents to customs: Timely delivery of documents to customs for review and approval.
- Paying customs duties: Full settlement of customs fees, charges, and applicable taxes.
- Coordination with customs officials: Following up on valuation and final customs approval.
- Goods transport: Unloading the shipment and transferring it to the final destination with due safety and required standards.
9) Documents Needed for Iron Ore Clearance
Clearing iron ore from customs is a critical stage in international trade of this mineral. To ensure this process is performed correctly and without delay, accurate and complete documentation is essential. Below are all required documents explained in simple, clear language.
- 1. Commercial Invoice: One of the main documents for iron ore clearance. It includes information such as total price, iron ore quantity, and payment terms. It must be precise and complete so customs can properly assess the shipment.
- 2. Packing List: Contains details related to the shipment’s packaging, including number of packages, net and gross weight, and type of packaging (e.g., container or bulk). This helps customs verify the shipment and calculate duties correctly.
- 3. Certificate of Origin: Issued by the chamber of commerce in the country of origin, indicating the producing country. Essential for many countries, especially if you intend to use preferential tariffs.
- 4. Bill of Lading: Another key document in the clearance process, issued by the carrier. It includes information such as carrier/consignee details, shipment date, mode of transport, and shipment specs. It serves as a document of title and enables transfer to the final destination.
- 5. Relevant legal permits: In Iran, importing or exporting iron ore requires obtaining a permit from the Ministry of Industry, Mine and Trade. This is necessary to control trade in this mineral and prevent commercial/economic issues. Additionally, some countries may have specific laws requiring extra permits.
- 6. Standards Certificate: In many countries, iron ore imports require quality/standards certificates. Issued by competent authorities in the origin or destination country, these prove the ore conforms to national or international standards—especially important where strict quality rules apply.
- 7. Insurance Certificate: Another important document proving the goods are insured. In the event of an incident or damage, it guarantees compensation. This is crucial for international shipments exposed to transport risks.
- 8. Customs Declaration Form: Contains full shipment details such as type of goods, value, and destination. Submitted by the owner or authorized representative, it helps customs assess and clear the shipment under applicable tariffs and regulations.
- 9. Warehouse Receipt: If the goods are stored in customs warehouses after arrival, this receipt is necessary to show storage fees are paid and to obtain release authorization.
- 10. Inspection & Analysis Certificate: In some cases, the importing country requires inspection/analysis. This confirms the ore has been examined and matches the specifications declared in other documents—typically issued by international inspection companies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HS Code for iron ore?
Iron ore is classified under tariff heading 2601, covering crude/graded and primary derivatives. Duties depend on type, purity, and trade policies.
Which documents are required for iron ore clearance?
Invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, bill of lading, quality/standards certificates, Ministry of IMT permit, and other permits/certificates as needed.
Who are the main global exporters and importers?
Exporters: Australia, Brazil, South Africa. Importers: China (largest), followed by Japan, South Korea, and India.
What are the simplified steps for iron ore clearance?
Prepare documents, submit to customs, pay duties/charges, coordinate with the assessor, and transport to the final destination.
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Conclusion & Call to Action
Given the large volumes, economic value, and quality sensitivities, iron ore clearance requires precise documentation planning and correct tariff classification. With a specialized team, Saba Tarkhis advances your process quickly, transparently, and in full compliance with regulations.
Request Expert Consultation Get a Clearance ProformaSpecial Iron Ore Clearance Services by Saba Brokerage
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Saba Brokerage is one of the most reputable and experienced customs brokers in Iran. By offering comprehensive, professional services, it helps accelerate and facilitate iron ore clearance. Our special services include:
- Preparation and completion of customs documents: Our expert team prepares all documents required for iron ore clearance and reviews them carefully. We ensure accuracy and completeness so no delays occur during clearance. Accurate documentation is one of the most important factors for speeding up this process.
- Specialized customs consulting: We provide technical and legal consulting on customs regulations and processes related to iron ore import/export, helping clients minimize costs and clearance time based on the latest rules and legal changes to reduce potential risks.
- Fast and accurate customs follow-up: We precisely and promptly follow all stages from document registration to cargo release. With full management of these steps, clearance proceeds smoothly and on schedule so clients receive their goods on time.
- Coordination with relevant organizations: With close, direct ties to governmental and supervisory bodies, we handle all necessary coordination to accelerate clearance, ensuring no issues or delays in dealings with these organizations.
- International transport: Beyond clearance, we provide international logistics services, including unloading, loading, and delivery to the final destination. We ensure safety and speed so goods arrive on time and at minimum cost.
By partnering with our professional team, you can entrust your iron ore clearance process to us with full confidence and benefit from fast, high-quality services.
