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Customs Clearance of Various Types of Coal/Charcoal in Iran (HS Code + Documents, Permits & Steps)
Customs clearance of various types of coal/charcoal is one of the specialized and sensitive processes in international trade. Due to the nature and diversity of this product, it requires precise knowledge of customs laws, environmental, health standards, and the tariffs related to each type of coal/charcoal. Coal/charcoal includes diverse categories such as charcoal (Charcoal), coal (Coal), and industrial/processed carbons, each of which not only has applications across various industries but also requires separate permits and specific documents for customs clearance.
To estimate the time and cost of clearing various carbons (charcoal/coal/activated carbon), contact the Saba Tarkhis experts.
Instant Free Consultation1) Types of Coal/Charcoal and Their Uses
1. Charcoal — HS 4402
Customs tariff (HS Code): The HS code for charcoal is 4402.
Use: Charcoal is primarily used in the food and culinary industries as a clean and stable fuel source. Due to its even burn and high heat output, charcoal is very suitable for cooking, barbecue, and hookah. It is also used in certain traditional industries such as pottery, metalworking, and even in some medical applications like water disinfection.
Special import regulations: Importing charcoal usually requires permits from the Department of Environment and the Forests & Rangelands Organization to ensure the charcoal is not sourced from unauthorized or illegal origins.
2. Coal — HS 2701
Customs tariff (HS Code): The HS code for coal is 2701.
Use: Coal is one of the world’s main energy sources and is used in power generation, steelmaking, cement production, and chemical industries. Coal is divided into thermal coal and metallurgical (coking) coal. Thermal coal is mainly used in power plants for electricity generation, while metallurgical coal is used in the steel industry to produce iron and steel.
Special import regulations: Due to environmental impacts and safety requirements during transport, coal imports require specific permits from the Department of Environment and the National Standards Organization.
3. Processed & Industrial Carbons
Use: This category includes activated carbon, used in water and air purification, the production of pharmaceutical and chemical substances, and in certain medical and laboratory applications. Owing to its high adsorption capacity, activated carbon is highly valuable in industrial and medical filtration.
Special import regulations: Imports of processed carbons, due to their specific chemical properties and applications in sensitive industries, require adherence to special health and environmental standards.
2) Specialized Steps for Clearing Coal/Charcoal from Customs
Order registration in the National Trade System:
The first step for importing coal/charcoal is to register the order in the National Trade System. Importers must record complete information about their goods in this system and obtain the necessary approvals from relevant organizations such as the Ministry of Industry, Mine and Trade, the Department of Environment, and, if needed, the Standards and Health organizations.
Preparing and submitting the required documents:
The essential documents for clearing coal/charcoal include the Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Certificate of Origin, Bill of Lading, and standards/health permits. These documents must be carefully prepared and submitted to customs along with the clearance request.
Obtaining specific permits:
Due to the nature of certain types of coal/charcoal, specific permits are required from the Department of Environment, the Standards Organization, and the Health Organization. For example, charcoal imports require verification of production sources and permits from the Forests & Rangelands Organization. Industrial carbons may require chemical and health permits.
Paying customs duties and taxes:
Based on the type of carbon and the value of the goods, the importer must pay the relevant customs duties. These duties may vary depending on the type of carbon and the country of origin/destination. For instance, the import duty on charcoal may be lower than coal, especially if the origin country is under a special trade agreement with Iran.
Goods inspection and final release:
After receiving the documents and permits, customs conducts a physical inspection to verify the recorded information and ensure the goods comply with regulations. Once approved, the goods are authorized for release and import into the country.
The first step for importing coal/charcoal is to register the order in the National Trade System. Importers must record complete information about their goods in this system and obtain the necessary approvals from relevant organizations such as the Ministry of Industry, Mine and Trade, the Department of Environment, and, if needed, the Standards and Health organizations.
Preparing and submitting the required documents:
The essential documents for clearing coal/charcoal include the Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Certificate of Origin, Bill of Lading, and standards/health permits. These documents must be carefully prepared and submitted to customs along with the clearance request.
Obtaining specific permits:
Due to the nature of certain types of coal/charcoal, specific permits are required from the Department of Environment, the Standards Organization, and the Health Organization. For example, charcoal imports require verification of production sources and permits from the Forests & Rangelands Organization. Industrial carbons may require chemical and health permits.
Paying customs duties and taxes:
Based on the type of carbon and the value of the goods, the importer must pay the relevant customs duties. These duties may vary depending on the type of carbon and the country of origin/destination. For instance, the import duty on charcoal may be lower than coal, especially if the origin country is under a special trade agreement with Iran.
Goods inspection and final release:
After receiving the documents and permits, customs conducts a physical inspection to verify the recorded information and ensure the goods comply with regulations. Once approved, the goods are authorized for release and import into the country.
3) Special Conditions for Importing and Exporting Coal/Charcoal
Imports of coal/charcoal into Iran—especially coal and charcoal—are carried out from various countries worldwide. As a country with high consumption in heavy industries and energy, Iran relies heavily on coal imports. Coal, which is used mainly in steel, cement, and power plants, is imported from countries such as China, South Africa, Russia, and Australia. These countries, as major coal exporters, play a significant role in meeting Iran’s needs.
Charcoal is also imported due to high demand in food-related and traditional industries, from countries such as Indonesia, Vietnam, Brazil, and Ukraine. Charcoal is used in traditional sectors like barbecue, hookah, and some handicrafts. On the other hand, Iranian charcoal is exported—due to its high quality—to countries such as Iraq, the United Arab Emirates, Turkey, and Central Asian countries. Charcoal exports are important as a non-oil revenue source for Iran, and high international demand creates significant opportunities to develop exports. The high quality of Iranian charcoal, thanks to the use of premium wood and traditional production methods, has made it popular in international markets.
4) Iran’s Import and Export Volumes of Coal/Charcoal
According to the latest trade statistics, Iran imports millions of tons of coal annually. This import volume is due to the extensive needs of Iran’s heavy industries, especially steel and power plants. Since coal is one of the main pillars of energy supply and industrial production, its import volume has been increasing year by year. Although charcoal imports are smaller in volume compared to coal, they have higher added value in Iran. Due to its specific applications in food and traditional industries, charcoal holds an important position in the domestic market, and part of it is also exported.
5) Global Trade Volume of Coal/Charcoal and Key Players
Global turnover for coal—particularly coal as a main energy source—reaches hundreds of billions of dollars annually. According to international reports, China is the largest consumer and importer of coal in the world, while countries such as South Africa, Australia, Russia, and the United States are among the main coal exporters. For charcoal, global trade is also growing due to high demand in both developing and developed countries. Brazil, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Thailand are known as the largest exporters of charcoal, while countries such as Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Iraq, and Kuwait are major importers.
6) Global Exporters and Importers of Coal/Charcoal
For coal exports, South Africa, Australia, Russia, and the United States are among the main global exporters. With vast coal mines and advanced infrastructure, these countries supply a substantial portion of global demand. On the import side, China, India, Japan, and South Korea are the largest coal importers, driven by large populations and high energy needs. In the charcoal sector, Brazil, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Thailand are recognized as key exporters. Middle Eastern countries—especially Iraq, the United Arab Emirates, and Kuwait—are major charcoal importers, particularly for hookah and barbecue uses with strong regional demand.
7) Required Documents for Clearing Coal/Charcoal
Providing precise and complete documentation is of high importance for clearing coal/charcoal from customs. Depending on the type (such as coal, charcoal, or industrial carbons), each product requires its own specific documents and permits.
1. Commercial Invoice
A commercial invoice is a key document required in every transaction. It includes details such as the value of the goods, type of carbon, quantity, weight, and payment terms. This information is used to calculate customs duties and taxes.
2. Packing List
The packing list contains precise details such as the number of packages, the weight of each package, and the type of carbon in each package. It is used for physical inspection at customs and must match other documents.
3. Certificate of Origin
This certificate confirms the exporting country. It is issued by the chamber of commerce in the country of origin and may be required to benefit from preferential tariffs or customs exemptions.
4. Bill of Lading
The bill of lading is another key document providing information on transport method, the carrier, and the final destination of the goods. It also serves as a document of title and is usually issued by the carrier.
5. Import License
Depending on the type of carbon and the importing country, an import license may be required. For example, importing charcoal may require permits from the Department of Environment or the Forests & Rangelands Organization.
6. Inspection Certificate
This certificate shows that the goods have been inspected for quality and quantity and may be issued by an international or domestic entity. Inspections can include environmental and health checks to ensure compliance with required standards.
7. Standards Certificate
For importing certain types, such as industrial carbons, national or international standards certificates are required, typically issued by relevant bodies in the country of origin.
8. Environmental and Health Permits
Charcoal and some industrial carbons, due to their potential environmental impacts, require specific permits from relevant authorities such as the Department of Environment.
9. Quarantine Certificate
When the carbon is imported from regions with potential contamination or disease risk, a quarantine certificate may be required to ensure the goods are sanitary and safe.
10. Safe Transport Declaration
If coal or industrial carbons pose transport risks, a declaration committing to safety measures and safe transport must be provided.
11. Proof of Duties and Tax Payment
A crucial document in the clearance process is proof of payment of customs duties and related taxes. Duties are calculated and paid based on the type of carbon and the value of the goods.
12. Transport and Insurance Documents
Transport and insurance documents must detail freight and insurance costs. These ensure that any losses due to incidents are covered.
13. Energy Organization Permits (if required)
If the carbon is imported specifically for energy production, permits from relevant energy organizations may be required.
14. Customs Declaration Form
The customs declaration is one of the most important documents, prepared and submitted by the importer or customs broker. It includes precise information about the type of carbon, value, countries of origin and destination, and full specifications of the imported goods.
15. End User Certificate
In some cases, an End User Certificate is required to indicate for what purpose and by which entity the carbon will be used.
1. Commercial Invoice
A commercial invoice is a key document required in every transaction. It includes details such as the value of the goods, type of carbon, quantity, weight, and payment terms. This information is used to calculate customs duties and taxes.
2. Packing List
The packing list contains precise details such as the number of packages, the weight of each package, and the type of carbon in each package. It is used for physical inspection at customs and must match other documents.
3. Certificate of Origin
This certificate confirms the exporting country. It is issued by the chamber of commerce in the country of origin and may be required to benefit from preferential tariffs or customs exemptions.
4. Bill of Lading
The bill of lading is another key document providing information on transport method, the carrier, and the final destination of the goods. It also serves as a document of title and is usually issued by the carrier.
5. Import License
Depending on the type of carbon and the importing country, an import license may be required. For example, importing charcoal may require permits from the Department of Environment or the Forests & Rangelands Organization.
6. Inspection Certificate
This certificate shows that the goods have been inspected for quality and quantity and may be issued by an international or domestic entity. Inspections can include environmental and health checks to ensure compliance with required standards.
7. Standards Certificate
For importing certain types, such as industrial carbons, national or international standards certificates are required, typically issued by relevant bodies in the country of origin.
8. Environmental and Health Permits
Charcoal and some industrial carbons, due to their potential environmental impacts, require specific permits from relevant authorities such as the Department of Environment.
9. Quarantine Certificate
When the carbon is imported from regions with potential contamination or disease risk, a quarantine certificate may be required to ensure the goods are sanitary and safe.
10. Safe Transport Declaration
If coal or industrial carbons pose transport risks, a declaration committing to safety measures and safe transport must be provided.
11. Proof of Duties and Tax Payment
A crucial document in the clearance process is proof of payment of customs duties and related taxes. Duties are calculated and paid based on the type of carbon and the value of the goods.
12. Transport and Insurance Documents
Transport and insurance documents must detail freight and insurance costs. These ensure that any losses due to incidents are covered.
13. Energy Organization Permits (if required)
If the carbon is imported specifically for energy production, permits from relevant energy organizations may be required.
14. Customs Declaration Form
The customs declaration is one of the most important documents, prepared and submitted by the importer or customs broker. It includes precise information about the type of carbon, value, countries of origin and destination, and full specifications of the imported goods.
15. End User Certificate
In some cases, an End User Certificate is required to indicate for what purpose and by which entity the carbon will be used.
| Goods | Short Description | HS Code |
|---|---|---|
| Charcoal | Culinary/traditional fuel | 4402 |
| Coal | Thermal/coking; energy & steel | 2701 |
| Industrial/Activated Carbons | Water/air filtration, medical/lab | Depends on composition/form |
Exact subheading classification for processed carbons depends on technical specs, form of supply, purity, and end use.
Need precise HS classification, permits, and document preparation? Our team manages your case end-to-end.
Submit Proforma RequestFrequently Asked Questions
What are the HS Codes for charcoal and coal?
Charcoal is usually classified under 4402 and coal under 2701; final classification depends on product specs and documentation.
Which permits are required to import coal/charcoal?
As applicable: permits from the Department of Environment, approvals from Standards and Health authorities, and for charcoal, oversight by the Forests & Rangelands Organization.
What are the key documents for coal/charcoal clearance?
Invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, bill of lading, standards/health certificates, case-specific permits, and customs declaration.
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Conclusion & Call to Action
Clearing various carbons is a sensitive process due to environmental, health, and tariff differences. With hands-on experience, Saba Tarkhis advances your case quickly and in full compliance with regulations.
Request Expert Consultation Get a Clearance ProformaSpecialized Customs Clearance Services by Saba Brokerage
As one of the leading customs service providers in Iran, with extensive experience in clearing industrial and energy goods, we offer specialized services for clearing various carbons. These services cover all stages from order registration to final release. With our know-how and experience, we can meet all the needs of coal/charcoal importers and exporters.
Specialized consulting on classification and documents: Our expert team carefully reviews the type of carbon and the country of origin, selects the best customs tariff headings, and assists clients in preparing the necessary documents.
Follow-up on environmental and health permits: Some types—especially charcoal and industrial carbons—require specific environmental and health permits. With full familiarity with these requirements, we obtain the permits swiftly.
Express clearance and cost reduction: Leveraging deep expertise and experience, we complete clearance in the shortest possible time and minimize extra costs due to port/storage delays.
International transport services: We cooperate with a network of reputable international carriers and provide the best logistics solutions tailored to client needs.
Legal and tax advisory: When needed, we provide specialized advice on legal and tax regulations related to the import/export of coal/charcoal to ensure all steps comply with the law.
By using these services, coal/charcoal importers and exporters can confidently bring their goods to domestic and foreign markets while optimizing time and cost.
