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Customs Clearance of Phosphorus in Iran (HS Code + Documents, Permits, and Safety Notes)
Phosphorus is one of the key elements in various industries and is used in different forms. This element is widely applied in the chemical, agricultural, food, and also in the production of flammable and industrial materials. For importing and clearing phosphorus through Iranian customs, understanding the details and steps of the process is of high importance.
For estimating the time and cost of phosphorus clearance (white/red and phosphorous compounds) contact Saba Tarkhis experts.
Immediate Free Consultation1) Types of Phosphorus and Its Applications
Phosphorus is available in different forms in the market:
- White Phosphorus: Due to its flammability and toxicity, this type is mostly used in military industries, explosives production, and chemical industries. Because of its environmental risks, importing and clearing this phosphorus requires very strict standards.
- Red Phosphorus: This type is more stable and, being less hazardous, is used in the production of matches, fire-retardant materials, and some catalysts. Importing this type is relatively easier but still requires compliance with regulations and special permits.
- Phosphorus Compounds: Phosphates and other phosphorus compounds are among the materials used in agriculture as fertilizers and in the food industry as additives. These compounds also have specific tariffs, and their import requires accuracy in customs declarations.
2) Key and Technical Notes in Phosphorus Customs Clearance
Customs Tariff (HS Code)
Customs tariffs are determined based on the Harmonized System (HS Code), which also assigns specific codes for phosphorus:
- White and Red Phosphorus: Classified under tariff code 2804.70.00. This code must be carefully stated in customs declarations to avoid delays or clearance issues.
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Phosphorus Compounds: Such as phosphates and other derivatives, each fall under specific tariff codes. For example, calcium phosphates, used as chemical fertilizers, are classified under tariff code 3103.10.00. Accurate determination of the tariff code is crucial, as import duties and regulations may differ depending on the chemical type.
Import Permits
Due to the chemical nature and potential risks of phosphorus, special permits from various authorities are required:
- White Phosphorus: Because of its specific chemical properties and high flammability, its import is under strict control. Prior to import, permits must be obtained from the Ministry of Industry, Mine and Trade and the Department of Environment. These permits ensure that import complies fully with safety regulations.
- Red Phosphorus: Although less dangerous than white phosphorus, its import still requires permits. Obtaining these permits ensures compliance with national and international standards.
Safety and Transport Documents (MSDS)
The Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) is a document containing detailed information on chemical properties, hazards, and safety instructions for handling and storage:
- White and Red Phosphorus: Both require a complete and valid MSDS. This must include physical/chemical properties, health hazards, fire-fighting methods, and first aid measures. MSDS must also detail safe transport instructions, packaging, shipping methods, and storage conditions (temperature, humidity, etc.).
- Transport: For safe transport, especially of white phosphorus, special containers preventing contact with air must be used. Additionally, strict control of temperature and humidity during transport is required to prevent unwanted reactions.
Clearance Conditions and Special Inspections
Customs Inspections: Due to the high sensitivity of phosphorus, especially white phosphorus, it may be subject to special customs inspections. These include full document checks, matching goods with declarations, and possible lab tests.
Storage Conditions: White phosphorus is extremely sensitive to light and air and may ignite rapidly when exposed to oxygen. Thus, it must be stored in vacuum or air-free environments. For transportation, sealed packaging preventing air entry must be used. Temperature and humidity must also be closely monitored.
Safety Notes: Clearance requires strict compliance with occupational safety guidelines. Personnel must be trained in handling and proper procedures, with access to protective equipment.
Import Permits: Importing phosphorus, especially the white type, requires special permits from authorities like the Ministry of Industry, Mine and Trade and the Department of Environment. These must be obtained before shipment enters Iran.
Submitting MSDS and related documents on chemical handling and safety is mandatory for clearance.
Submitting MSDS and related documents on chemical handling and safety is mandatory for clearance.
Clearance Conditions: Special inspections: Phosphorus, especially the white type, may undergo stricter inspections to ensure compliance with safety standards.
Storage and Transport: White phosphorus is highly flammable and must be stored and transported under controlled conditions. Use of special containers and maintaining standard temperature/humidity are essential to avoid accidents.
Storage and Transport: White phosphorus is highly flammable and must be stored and transported under controlled conditions. Use of special containers and maintaining standard temperature/humidity are essential to avoid accidents.
| Goods | Short Description | HS Code |
|---|---|---|
| White/Red Phosphorus | Phosphorus element with sensitive safety properties | 2804.70.00 |
| Calcium Phosphates (Fertilizer) | Phosphorus compounds for agriculture | 3103.10.00 |
Precise classification of other phosphorus compounds depends on type, purity, physical form, final application, and formulation.
3) Major exporters/importers and trade volumes
Major exporters: China, Kazakhstan, and the United States are among the largest exporters of phosphorus worldwide. Due to large-scale production and lower costs, these countries supply a significant share of global demand.
Importers: Iran mainly imports phosphorus from China and India. Thanks to competitive prices and easy access to global markets, these countries are Iran’s primary suppliers.
The import volume of phosphorus into Iran particularly for industrial and agricultural uses is significant. Given the country’s high demand for phosphate-based fertilizers and related chemicals, imports have been steadily increasing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HS Code for white and red phosphorus?
White/red phosphorus is typically declared under 2804.70.00. Some phosphorus compounds (such as calcium phosphates) fall under other lines like 3103.10.00.
What permits are required to import phosphorus?
Permits from the Ministry of Industry, Mine and Trade and the Department of Environment are necessary, especially for white phosphorus. Submitting a MSDS and complying with safety standards are mandatory.
What are the storage and transport conditions for white phosphorus?
Store in sealed, air-free containers with controlled temperature/humidity and away from light. Using special containers and hazard labeling is mandatory.
Is special customs inspection required for phosphorus clearance?
Yes. Given safety sensitivities, there may be thorough document checks, sampling, and verification against the declaration especially for white phosphorus.
Multimedia Suggestions
- Image file name:
phosphorus-clearance-iran-wp-rp-hs-280470.jpg - Alt Text: Clearance of white and red phosphorus from Iran Customs; HS 280470 and safety requirements
- Caption: «Phosphorus clearance pathway: from MoIMT/DOE permits to MSDS and special inspections»
- Infographic: «White/red phosphorus clearance checklist: HS Code, permits, packaging, and safe transport»
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Summary and Call to Action
Given its safety and environmental sensitivities, phosphorus clearance requires precise documentation planning, multiple permits, and adherence to transport/storage standards. With Saba Tarkhis’s hands-on experience and expert team, your process will be fast, safe, and compliant.
Request Expert Consultation Get a Clearance ProformaSpecial Customs Clearance Services by Saba Brokerage
As a reputable customs brokerage, Saba offers specialized services for importing and clearing white/red phosphorus and phosphorus compounds. Focusing on expert consulting, order registration, obtaining necessary permits (MoIMT/DOE), and precise document management, we ensure the import process concludes quickly and smoothly.
Specialized phosphorus clearance services:
- Expert consulting: Our specialists provide precise guidance on phosphorus imports and help prepare the required documents and permits for a fast, efficient process.
Document preparation and completion: All documents needed for phosphorus clearance including customs declarations, MSDS, and import permits are fully prepared and completed.
Effective liaison with authorities: Strong relationships with relevant organizations such as the Ministry of Industry, Mine and Trade and the Department of Environment help accelerate permitting and clearance.
Safe transport: We ensure your phosphorus is handled in safe conditions, following all international transport and storage standards. Using special containers and standard shipping methods to prevent incidents and losses is a top priority.
Ongoing follow-up: Once the goods arrive in Iran, we closely track the clearance process to prevent any delays or issues.
