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Customs Clearance of Various Eyeglass Frames and Lenses

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Customs clearance of eyeglass frames | HS Codes, documents, standards & valuation

Customs Clearance of Eyeglass Frames in Iran (HS Codes + Documents & Permits)

Clearing eyeglass frames through customs is a sensitive, critical step in the supply chain. Beyond strict customs rules, it also requires understanding product use cases and specific features. Because frames directly relate to eye health and play a role in fashion and style they must meet required quality and standards.

To estimate time and cost for eyeglass frame clearance, contact the Saba Tarkhis experts.

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1) Applications & Types of Eyeglass Frames

Frames are generally grouped into three main categories: prescription, sunglasses, and safety glasses. Each features unique specifications detailed below.
Prescription glasses: Designed to correct refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. Frames must be sturdy and durable to hold optical lenses precisely. Typical materials include lightweight metals (titanium, stainless steel) and high-grade polycarbonates chosen for hypoallergenic properties, corrosion resistance, and low weight.
Sunglasses: Built to protect eyes from UV radiation and intense sunlight while also serving fashion needs. Common materials are polycarbonate, nylon, acetate, and titanium in premium models lightweight, strong, and highly formable for diverse, stylish designs.
Safety glasses: Engineered to protect eyes in industrial/work environments against particulates, chemicals, and intense light (e.g., lasers, IR). Frames require high mechanical strength, chemical resistance, and compliance with standards such as ANSI Z87.1 (US) or EN166 (EU). Typical materials include impact-resistant polycarbonate and glass-fiber-reinforced plastics.

2) Key Points in Eyeglass Frame Customs Clearance

Clearing frames is complex and requires technical knowledge of customs rules, health/quality standards, and proper valuation. Below are the essentials.
1. HS Codes (Tariff Classification)
HS codes identify and classify goods globally under the Harmonized System. For frames, the relevant subheadings are:
9003.11: complete frames ready for use (typically for prescription or sunglasses). These are fully prepared to receive lenses and require no further finishing.

9003.19: other frames not fully finished or requiring completion; may be intended for special uses or further customization.

Duties, taxes, and import conditions depend on accurate HS selection. Correct classification minimizes cost and avoids legal or clearance delays.

2. Health & Quality Standards
Given skin contact and proximity to eyes, frames must comply with national and international health/quality standards. In Iran, the main authorities include:
Iran National Standards Organization (INSO): sets and enforces national standards across materials, hygienic production processes, and final quality tests.
Ministry of Health: oversees health and safety compliance—materials, production processes, and ensuring imported frames pose no health risks.
Strict compliance and obtaining necessary approvals prevents seizure or legal issues at customs.

3. Labeling & Accompanying Documents
Labels must clearly include:
Country of origin; materials used; applicable standard numbers; manufacturer name/contact.
Accompanying documents (invoice, conformity/health certificates, etc.) must be complete preferably in the official language of the importing country or with an official translation.

4. Customs Valuation
Proper valuation determines duties and taxes. Key factors include:
Brand reputation; materials (e.g., titanium/acetate vs. basic plastics); design complexity; manufacturing country.
Accurate valuation prevents tax disputes and speeds up release.

3) Exporting & Importing Countries

Imports to Iran: major sources are China, Italy, Germany, and South Korea. China leads due to scale and competitive pricing; Italy is notable for high quality and unique design.
Exports from Iran: limited and mostly to neighboring markets such as Iraq and Afghanistan typically special orders at competitive prices.

4) Special Conditions for Import & Export

Imports: some products may face tariff restrictions or require specific permits. Importers must ensure full compliance with Iran’s health/quality standards; non-compliance risks seizure and extra costs.
Exports: beyond customs/standard compliance in destination markets, robust packaging and precise labeling are crucial to prevent damage and show full product information.

5) Import/Export Volumes & Main Markets

Iran’s imports are growing with demand for high-quality, attractive frames largely sourced from China. Exports are modest and focused on neighbors.
Globally, the frames market is expanding fast. China, Italy, and the US are major producers/exporters; Europe and North America are key importers with strong demand for quality and modern design.

6) Documents Required for Eyeglass Frame Clearance

Required paperwork varies by product type, origin/destination, and customs rules. Core documents include:
1. Commercial Invoice
Description: precise details (type of frame, brand, model, material, specs).
Quantity & price: units or weight; unit and total prices.
Terms of sale: CIF/FOB/EXW, etc.
2. Packing List
Package details: number of packages, gross/net weight, dimensions, packaging type.
Package IDs: each package numbered/matched to the list.
3. Certificate of Origin
Issued by chamber of commerce in country of origin; often required for preferential tariffs.
4. Certificate of Conformity
Confirms compliance with national/international standards; issued by recognized bodies and, where needed, endorsed by destination authorities.
5. Health Certificate
If classified as hygienic/cosmetic goods; confirms non-toxic, skin-safe materials.
6. Inspection Certificate
Independent verification of quality/quantity against PO and trade docs; mandatory in some countries.
7. Customs Declaration
Full info incl. HS code, customs value, quantities, weights; may require customs stamps/approvals.
8. Bill of Lading / Air Waybill
Transport document confirming carriage; includes carrier, final destination, and shipment details.
9. Import License
If required for the product category, obtained prior to shipment.
10. Tax/Duty Payment Certificate
Proof of paid duties/VAT and fees—often necessary for final release.
11. Other (as needed)
Insurance Certificate (cargo risks); Fumigation Certificate (where required).
Goods Short description HS Code
Complete eyeglass frame Full frame for prescription/sun 9003.11
Other/unfinished frames Requires finishing/customizing 9003.19

Final subheading depends on material (titanium/stainless/acetate/polycarbonate), completion status, brand, and end use.

Need precise HS classification, health/standard approvals, and document prep? Our team manages the entire case end-to-end.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the HS code for eyeglass frames?

Generally 9003.11 (complete) and 9003.19 (other/unfinished); final choice depends on material, completion status, and end use.

Which permits are needed to import frames?

Approvals from the INSO and, where applicable, the Ministry of Health (skin-safe materials), plus full labeling and manufacturer technical docs.

How is the customs value determined?

By brand, material (titanium/acetate/stainless/polycarbonate), design complexity, and country of manufacture. Accurate valuation avoids disputes.

Media Suggestions

  • Image filename: eyeglass-frames-customs-clearance-iran.jpg
  • Alt Text: Eyeglass frames customs clearance in Iran | HS 9003.11 / 9003.19
  • Caption: “Frames clearance checklist: HS, standards, health & valuation”
  • Infographic: “Import roadmap for frames: from order registration to delivery”

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Summary & Call to Action

By choosing Saba Tarkhis for eyeglass frame clearance, you’ll benefit from complete document handling, precise HS selection, professional valuation, and health/standards approvals.

Request expert advice Get a clearance proforma

Specialized Eyeglass Frame Clearance by Saba Brokerage

As a leading customs brokerage in Iran, our expert team handles every stage of eyeglass frame clearance with speed and precision.

Comprehensive expert consulting: We guide you through document preparation and compliance, keeping you current with the latest customs regulations for smooth clearance.

End-to-end customs handling: Order registration, valuation, health/standard permits, and continuous case tracking performed professionally for the fastest possible release.

Professional packaging & labeling: Proper packaging and accurate labels to protect goods in transit and meet customs/market requirements.

Speed & accuracy: Advanced tools and a specialized team reduce both time and cost.

Ongoing support: We stay with you at every step answering questions quickly and clearing roadblocks.

Choose us to leverage deep expertise in eyeglass frame clearance and move forward with confidence. Our goal is top-quality service and the best outcomes for our clients.

Contact our experts for details.

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