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Propane Customs Clearance in Iran (HS 2711.12.00 + Documents and Permits)
Propane is one of the most important and widely used hydrocarbon gases. Owing to its specific physical and chemical properties, it is used across a broad range of industries. The gas is stored as a liquid under pressure and, due to its flammable and explosive nature, is classified as a hazardous good. Importing and clearing propane through customs requires compliance with specific technical, safety, and legal guidelines to ensure safe transport, storage, and use.
For a time and cost estimate of propane clearance, contact the experts at Saba Tarkhis.
Immediate and Free ConsultationMain Applications of Propane
Thanks to its unique properties, propane has extensive applications across many industries. Some of the most important uses include:
- Vehicle fuel: Propane is a key component of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) used as an alternative fuel for vehicles. Compared with gasoline and diesel, it produces fewer greenhouse gases, which is why it is considered a clean and economical fuel in many countries.
- Heating and cooling: Propane serves as an energy source in gas heaters, water heaters, and central heating systems. In cooling systems, propane is also used as an efficient refrigerant with high performance and a more environmentally friendly profile than many other refrigerants.
- Petrochemical industry: Propane is a feedstock for producing chemicals such as propylene—a key material in the manufacture of plastics, synthetic fibers, and chemicals.
- Power generation: Propane is used as a fuel in electricity generators, especially in remote areas not connected to the grid. Thanks to its portability and high efficiency, it is recognized as an emergency backup fuel for critical power supply.
- Cooking and LPG cylinders: Propane is filled into LPG cylinders for kitchens, restaurants, and camping. These cylinders are widely used worldwide due to their portability and high heat output.
Propane Tariff and HS Code
In the Harmonized System (HS Code), propane is classified under 2711.12.00, referring to liquefied gases. This code is used precisely to identify and classify propane during customs clearance and is the basis for calculating import and export duties.
The propane tariff is influenced by factors such as the country of origin, packaging type, trade agreements between countries, and transport standards. Importers must carefully consider these factors, since propane—being a sensitive good—requires thorough quality and safety checks during transport and storage stages.
The propane tariff is influenced by factors such as the country of origin, packaging type, trade agreements between countries, and transport standards. Importers must carefully consider these factors, since propane—being a sensitive good—requires thorough quality and safety checks during transport and storage stages.
Technical and Safety Notes for Propane Clearance
Safety and quality certificates: Propane importers are obliged to obtain safety and quality certificates from internationally recognized organizations. These must be issued in line with international safety, quality, and environmental standards and verified by accredited bodies. Organizations such as ISO and CE issue the necessary certificates for imported propane products.
Standard packaging and transport: Propane must be packaged in high-pressure-resistant cylinders that comply with international standards. Safe packaging minimizes the risks of leakage, explosion, or other incidents during storage and transport. Transport should be carried out with specialized vehicles under high safety conditions.
Domestic permits and approvals: Due to its widespread use and potential safety and health impacts, propane must have the necessary approvals from domestic bodies such as Iran’s National Standard Organization. These approvals monitor propane quality and safety and authorize import and distribution.
Required clearance documents: To clear propane from customs, documents such as the commercial invoice, certificate of origin, bill of lading, legal permits, and safety certificates are required. All documents must be prepared completely and accurately and submitted to customs. Any deficiencies can delay clearance or increase customs costs.
Special Conditions for Propane Import and Export (Complete and Expert Overview)
As a liquefied hydrocarbon gas, propane is considered a sensitive and strategic commodity in global markets. Because of its flammable and explosive nature, importing and exporting propane requires strict adherence to specific regulations and guidelines. Since propane is used across energy, petrochemical, and transport industries, its international trade is highly significant.
1) International regulations for transporting propane
Because propane is flammable and can explode if transported or stored incorrectly, it must be moved in accordance with international transport regulations. These include conventions such as ADR (road transport of dangerous goods) and IMDG (maritime transport of dangerous goods). Tankers and cylinders used to transport propane must meet specific standards to prevent leaks, explosions, or other incidents. Carriers are obliged to follow all safety instructions.
2) Export restrictions
Propane exports from some countries are subject to specific legal, sanctions-related, or environmental restrictions. In certain jurisdictions, sanctions or environmental rules applicable to exporting such liquefied gases affect trade. Propane importers and exporters must be aware of all relevant international and national laws to avoid issues during clearance.
3) Special import permits for propane
In many countries, importing propane requires special permits from supervisory and safety bodies. These include safety, environmental, and commercial permits that importers must obtain before proceeding. In some countries, agencies such as the National Standards Organization or Environmental Protection Organization oversee the permitting process.
4) Propane price controls
Given propane’s importance in energy and petrochemical industries, many countries regulate it through government and oversight bodies. Price controls are used to prevent sharp volatility and to manage domestic and international markets. Some countries apply regulatory policies for more precise pricing of propane imports and exports.
5) Propane import and export volumes to and from Iran
As a country with vast gas reserves, Iran has long been an exporter of propane regionally and globally. However, part of Iran’s domestic demand is also met through imports. Each year, significant volumes of propane are imported from countries such as Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Russia. On the export side, Iran ships a portion of its propane production to Asian and European countries. Target markets include East Asia and Europe.
6) Global circulation of propane
Global propane flows are influenced by growing demand for cleaner alternative fuels. As a clean and economical liquefied gas, propane has become an important energy source in recent years. Demand has risen in both industrialized and developing countries, and global propane trade exceeds 120 million tons per year. This volume is mainly supplied by countries such as Qatar, the United States, Russia, and Saudi Arabia—among the world’s largest propane producers.
7) Major global exporters of propane
- United States: One of the largest propane exporters, supplying a substantial share of global demand.
- Qatar: Plays a key role in global propane supply as one of the largest LPG producers.
- Russia: Among the largest exporters of LPG and propane to European and Asian markets.
- Saudi Arabia: Another major global producer and exporter of propane.
8) Major global importers of propane
- Japan: One of the largest propane importers due to high energy needs across industries.
- South Korea: Also a major importer thanks to widespread use in industry and households.
- India: High demand driven by rapid industrial development and a large population.
- China: A key global propane importer using the gas across various industries.
Required Documents for Propane Customs Clearance
Clearing propane from customs—given its specific characteristics and hazardous nature—requires comprehensive and accurate documentation. Failure to provide correct documents can delay clearance or even result in rejection.
Commercial invoice
The commercial invoice is fundamental and includes the product specifications, price, sales terms, and supplier details. It should state the seller’s and buyer’s names and addresses, transaction date, type and quantity of propane, and final price. To facilitate clearance, provide the invoice in both Persian and English.
Certificate of origin
This certificate verifies the origin of the goods and is crucial for tariff determination. It must be issued by the Chamber of Commerce or an accredited body in the exporting country and indicate the country and specifications under which the propane is imported.
Bill of lading
A vital transport document recording shipment details, including carrier name and address, transport mode, and destination information. It evidences title during transit and serves as a valid document in customs procedures.
Safety and quality certificates
These must be issued by internationally recognized bodies and confirm compliance with international safety and quality standards. They may include ISO and CE certificates and are submitted to ensure the propane’s safety and quality.
Import permits
Importing propane requires legal permits, including safety approvals from relevant organizations, as well as environmental and commercial permits. Importers must ensure all permits are in place to avoid legal issues during clearance.
Standards certificate
This confirms conformity with national and international standards. Obtaining it from Iran’s National Standard Organization or other accredited bodies ensures the goods are imported safely and in line with applicable standards.
ID of the legal representative
If a legal representative or broker handles clearance, provide their identification along with a power of attorney. These documents must include the representative’s full details and confirm their authority to act.
Company registration documents
For commercial entities, submit company registration documents and the economic code. These must clearly confirm the importer’s legal identity and that they are authorized to import hazardous goods.
Loading certificate
This must evidence proper loading of the propane and support transport safety. It may include required confirmations from the carrier, indicating the propane was loaded under safe conditions.
Insurance certificate
In some cases, transport insurance documentation is mandatory. Insurance should cover potential hazards during transit and ensure compensation for losses in case of incidents.
Commercial invoice
The commercial invoice is fundamental and includes the product specifications, price, sales terms, and supplier details. It should state the seller’s and buyer’s names and addresses, transaction date, type and quantity of propane, and final price. To facilitate clearance, provide the invoice in both Persian and English.
Certificate of origin
This certificate verifies the origin of the goods and is crucial for tariff determination. It must be issued by the Chamber of Commerce or an accredited body in the exporting country and indicate the country and specifications under which the propane is imported.
Bill of lading
A vital transport document recording shipment details, including carrier name and address, transport mode, and destination information. It evidences title during transit and serves as a valid document in customs procedures.
Safety and quality certificates
These must be issued by internationally recognized bodies and confirm compliance with international safety and quality standards. They may include ISO and CE certificates and are submitted to ensure the propane’s safety and quality.
Import permits
Importing propane requires legal permits, including safety approvals from relevant organizations, as well as environmental and commercial permits. Importers must ensure all permits are in place to avoid legal issues during clearance.
Standards certificate
This confirms conformity with national and international standards. Obtaining it from Iran’s National Standard Organization or other accredited bodies ensures the goods are imported safely and in line with applicable standards.
ID of the legal representative
If a legal representative or broker handles clearance, provide their identification along with a power of attorney. These documents must include the representative’s full details and confirm their authority to act.
Company registration documents
For commercial entities, submit company registration documents and the economic code. These must clearly confirm the importer’s legal identity and that they are authorized to import hazardous goods.
Loading certificate
This must evidence proper loading of the propane and support transport safety. It may include required confirmations from the carrier, indicating the propane was loaded under safe conditions.
Insurance certificate
In some cases, transport insurance documentation is mandatory. Insurance should cover potential hazards during transit and ensure compensation for losses in case of incidents.
| Product | Short Description | HS Code |
|---|---|---|
| Propane | Liquefied hydrocarbon gas; flammable | 2711.12.00 |
Final classification depends on presentation (cylinder/tank), purity, packaging, and application.
Need precise HS determination, permits, and document preparation? Our team manages the entire case end to end.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HS Code for propane?
As stated, propane is classified under 2711.12.00 (liquefied gases); the final line depends on shipping documents, purity, and application.
What permits are required to import propane?
As applicable: safety approvals, national standards certification, environmental permits, and other relevant trade permits; along with transport documents, certificate of origin, and insurance.
Which regulations govern propane transport?
In accordance with international dangerous goods rules including ADR (road) and IMDG (sea), using standard tankers/cylinders and safety markings.
Special Customs Clearance Services by Saba Brokerage
Saba Brokerage is one of Iran’s leading firms offering specialized services for clearing propane and other sensitive goods. Services include:
Expert consulting and risk forecasting: Our expert team provides specialized advice on customs laws and safety points to help importers complete propane clearance quickly and without issues.
Preparation of documents and legal permits: We prepare all required documents, including safety certificates, import permits, and standards certifications, and submit them to customs to ensure smooth clearance.
Coordination with oversight bodies: We liaise with organizations such as the National Standards Organization and the Environmental Protection Organization to obtain all approvals required for dangerous goods like propane.
Safe transport: Given propane’s hazardous nature, we work with reputable carriers specialized in dangerous goods to ensure safety and security through to final destination.
Cost reduction and faster clearance: A key benefit is optimizing the process to reduce customs and logistics costs. With efficient methods and long experience, clearance is completed quickly and cost-effectively.
Ultimately, with specialized knowledge and years of experience in clearing hazardous goods including propane we provide the best customs solutions so importers achieve fast, safe, and reliable clearance.
