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T-shirt Customs Clearance in Iran (HS Code + Documents and Permits)
Customs clearance of various T-shirts Import and export of T-shirts, as one of the main products in the apparel industry, requires strict adherence to customs laws and regulations, awareness of tax tariffs, and use of optimal clearance methods. Due to their wide application in daily life, sports activities, and even advertising, T-shirts hold a significant share of the global apparel market. In Iran, because of the growing demand for these products, importing and exporting T-shirts are of special importance.
For estimating the time and cost of T-shirt customs clearance, contact the Saba Tarkhis experts.
Instant Free Consultation1) Categories of T-shirts and Their Applications
T-shirts are divided into various categories based on raw materials and use cases, each with specific conditions and rules for clearance:
Cotton T-shirts: The most popular and widely used type, used in all seasons due to comfort and breathability.
Polyester T-shirts: Mostly used in sports activities and, thanks to high resistance to moisture and wrinkling, have diverse applications.
Blended T-shirts: Produced from cotton/polyester blends and used for specific purposes such as sports or advertising.
Promotional T-shirts: Specifically used for advertising campaigns and branding; these are usually produced and offered with custom prints.
Depending on the T-shirt type, special customs clearance conditions may apply—especially for promotional T-shirts that may require special permits.
Cotton T-shirts: The most popular and widely used type, used in all seasons due to comfort and breathability.
Polyester T-shirts: Mostly used in sports activities and, thanks to high resistance to moisture and wrinkling, have diverse applications.
Blended T-shirts: Produced from cotton/polyester blends and used for specific purposes such as sports or advertising.
Promotional T-shirts: Specifically used for advertising campaigns and branding; these are usually produced and offered with custom prints.
Depending on the T-shirt type, special customs clearance conditions may apply—especially for promotional T-shirts that may require special permits.
2) Customs Tariffs and HS Codes for T-shirt Imports
For importing T-shirts, correct use of the HS Code is essential and directly impacts tariff and tax determination. The main HS Codes for T-shirts are: Cotton T-shirts: HS Code 6109; Polyester T-shirts: HS Code 6110. The customs tariff for importing T-shirts varies depending on raw material type, country of origin, and import volume. Generally, tariff rates for importing T-shirts range between 20 to 30 percent of the total value of the goods. Importers are also required to pay value-added tax (VAT) and other charges related to tax laws. The higher the value of the imported goods, the higher the corresponding tariffs and duties.
| T-shirt Type | Short Description | HS Code |
|---|---|---|
| Cotton T-shirts | Products with cotton fibers | 6109 |
| Polyester T-shirts | Synthetic/Sports fibers | 6110 |
3) Special Conditions for T-shirt Import and Export
Importing and exporting T-shirts, as one of the most important apparel items globally, requires compliance with specific laws and regulations essential for importers and exporters. These conditions include obtaining various permits from regulatory organizations, meeting quality standards, and submitting valid documentation; failure to comply with any of these may lead to delays or issues in the clearance process.
Obtaining necessary permits from the Ministry of Industry, Mine and Trade: For importing T-shirts, importers must obtain the required permits from the Ministry. These permits are issued based on quality, standards, and T-shirt type.
Quality standard certificates: All imported T-shirts must comply with national and international standards and carry the required quality certificates. Each item must also include a label specifying materials used and country of origin.
Certificate of Origin: Countries exporting T-shirts to Iran (such as China, Turkey, India, and others) must provide a valid Certificate of Origin that precisely identifies the manufacturing country. This certificate is essential for avoiding clearance issues and verifying import authenticity.
Obtaining necessary permits from the Ministry of Industry, Mine and Trade: For importing T-shirts, importers must obtain the required permits from the Ministry. These permits are issued based on quality, standards, and T-shirt type.
Quality standard certificates: All imported T-shirts must comply with national and international standards and carry the required quality certificates. Each item must also include a label specifying materials used and country of origin.
Certificate of Origin: Countries exporting T-shirts to Iran (such as China, Turkey, India, and others) must provide a valid Certificate of Origin that precisely identifies the manufacturing country. This certificate is essential for avoiding clearance issues and verifying import authenticity.
4) T-shirt Import and Export Volume to Iran
T-shirt imports to Iran have increased significantly each year, considering rising domestic demand and changing fashion styles. It is estimated that the annual volume of T-shirt imports to Iran is about USD 100 million. The main exporting countries to Iran include China, Turkey, and India, which supply a substantial portion of Iran’s T-shirt imports. Regarding exports, in recent years Iran has exported T-shirts to neighboring countries such as Iraq, Afghanistan, and the Persian Gulf states. Proper product quality, geographic proximity, and lower transportation costs are key drivers of export growth from Iran to these countries. Although Iran’s T-shirt export volume is smaller than its imports, this trend is increasing due to regional market demand.
5) T-shirt Circulation in the Global Market
The global T-shirt market—valued at billions of dollars—is one of the main segments in the apparel industry. According to recent statistics, the global T-shirt market value in 2023 was estimated at USD 154 billion, and it is expected to continue with steady annual growth. Asian countries, especially China, Vietnam, and Bangladesh, as the main producers, hold a large share of global T-shirt production and meet a significant portion of worldwide demand.
6) Major T-shirt Exporters and Importers Worldwide
Main T-shirt exporters worldwide: China, as the world’s largest T-shirt producer, accounts for a large share of global exports. In addition to China, Vietnam, Bangladesh, Turkey, and India are other major T-shirt producers supplying global markets. Thanks to low labor costs and access to raw materials, these countries can mass-produce and offer T-shirts to global markets at competitive prices.
Main T-shirt importers worldwide: European countries such as Germany, France, and the United Kingdom, along with the United States, are the largest T-shirt importers. With large consumer markets and high domestic demand, they hold a major share of global T-shirt imports. Middle Eastern and Latin American countries are also emerging as important importing markets.
Main T-shirt importers worldwide: European countries such as Germany, France, and the United Kingdom, along with the United States, are the largest T-shirt importers. With large consumer markets and high domestic demand, they hold a major share of global T-shirt imports. Middle Eastern and Latin American countries are also emerging as important importing markets.
7) Documents and Papers Required for T-shirt Clearance
To clear T-shirts from customs, the required papers and documents must be correctly prepared and submitted. These documents play an important role in validating product information, determining its value, and complying with customs regulations.
1. Customs Declaration
The primary document that must be submitted to customs. It includes information such as product type (T-shirts), quantity, weight, value, and other specifications. Accuracy in completing this form is essential, as any discrepancy may lead to delays in clearance.
2. Commercial Invoice
The commercial invoice issued by the seller or exporter shows transaction details, including T-shirt prices, sales terms, and detailed financial information. This document helps customs calculate tariffs and duties.
3. Packing List
The packing list describes how the goods are packed. It includes the number and type of packages, and their weights and dimensions. The information in this list must match the customs declaration and commercial invoice.
4. Certificate of Origin
The Certificate of Origin indicates the country from which the goods were exported. Issued by the exporter or the chamber of commerce in the country of origin, it affects customs tariff determination and compliance with international trade rules.
5. Bill of Lading
The bill of lading is issued by the carrier. It provides key information such as mode of transport, origin and destination, and transport conditions, and it shows delivery of the goods to the carrier.
6. Import Permits
In some cases, importing T-shirts requires specific permits from government bodies. These permits may include approvals from the Standards Organization, the Ministry of Industry, Mine and Trade, and other regulatory organizations.
7. Health and Quality Certificates
If T-shirts are used in specific industries such as food or pharmaceuticals, health and quality certificates from recognized authorities may be required. These certificates ensure that the goods meet hygiene standards.
8. Import License
An import license is a permit issued by government authorities allowing the importer to bring in the goods. Certain items require this license, which must be obtained before starting the clearance process.
9. Order Registration
Order registration is one of the main steps in importing to Iran and must be completed through the relevant system. The importer must register the goods in this system and receive import approval.
10. Inspection Certificate
In some cases, goods may need to be inspected before entering the country or after entry. In such cases, an inspection certificate is issued by accredited inspection companies and submitted to customs.
1. Customs Declaration
The primary document that must be submitted to customs. It includes information such as product type (T-shirts), quantity, weight, value, and other specifications. Accuracy in completing this form is essential, as any discrepancy may lead to delays in clearance.
2. Commercial Invoice
The commercial invoice issued by the seller or exporter shows transaction details, including T-shirt prices, sales terms, and detailed financial information. This document helps customs calculate tariffs and duties.
3. Packing List
The packing list describes how the goods are packed. It includes the number and type of packages, and their weights and dimensions. The information in this list must match the customs declaration and commercial invoice.
4. Certificate of Origin
The Certificate of Origin indicates the country from which the goods were exported. Issued by the exporter or the chamber of commerce in the country of origin, it affects customs tariff determination and compliance with international trade rules.
5. Bill of Lading
The bill of lading is issued by the carrier. It provides key information such as mode of transport, origin and destination, and transport conditions, and it shows delivery of the goods to the carrier.
6. Import Permits
In some cases, importing T-shirts requires specific permits from government bodies. These permits may include approvals from the Standards Organization, the Ministry of Industry, Mine and Trade, and other regulatory organizations.
7. Health and Quality Certificates
If T-shirts are used in specific industries such as food or pharmaceuticals, health and quality certificates from recognized authorities may be required. These certificates ensure that the goods meet hygiene standards.
8. Import License
An import license is a permit issued by government authorities allowing the importer to bring in the goods. Certain items require this license, which must be obtained before starting the clearance process.
9. Order Registration
Order registration is one of the main steps in importing to Iran and must be completed through the relevant system. The importer must register the goods in this system and receive import approval.
10. Inspection Certificate
In some cases, goods may need to be inspected before entering the country or after entry. In such cases, an inspection certificate is issued by accredited inspection companies and submitted to customs.
Need accurate HS Code determination, permits, and document preparation? Our team manages the case end-to-end.
Submit Proforma RequestFrequently Asked Questions
What is the HS Code for T-shirts?
For cotton T-shirts usually 6109, and for synthetic/polyester T-shirts 6110. Final determination depends on material and construction.
How much is the import tariff for T-shirts?
Depending on fiber type, country of origin, and value—generally between 20% to 30% of CIF value—plus VAT and related duties.
Which documents are required for T-shirt clearance?
Customs declaration, commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, bill of lading, order registration, import permits, and—if applicable—standards/health certificates.
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Summary and Call to Action
With Saba Tarkhis’s specialized services, you can handle the T-shirt clearance process quickly, transparently, and efficiently.
Request Expert Consultation Get Clearance ProformaSpecial Customs-Clearing Services by Saba Brokerage
Leveraging a specialist team familiar with all aspects of customs regulations, this brokerage provides special services to importers and exporters in Iran. Some of these services include:
Specialized customs consulting: Our consultants analyze your goods and needs and suggest the best clearance methods. This includes tariff analysis, reviewing required documents, and offering optimal solutions to accelerate clearance.
Obtaining required permits: For some goods, including T-shirts, specific permits from various organizations are needed. The brokerage handles all stages of obtaining these permits quickly and accurately.
Preparing and submitting the customs declaration: One of the most complex stages. With our experience, we prepare your declaration with all necessary details so the process proceeds smoothly.
Paying taxes and customs duties: Accurate calculation and on-time payment of taxes and duties are crucial. All payments are made promptly to prevent any clearance issues.
Fast clearance and delivery: Using a strong network and experience across Iran’s customs offices, we can clear your goods in the shortest possible time and deliver them to the warehouse or final destination.
Using these services ensures T-shirt import/export is carried out at maximum speed and minimum cost, with administrative issues kept to a minimum.
