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Customs Clearance of Various Polishes and Creams for Shining Shoes or Leather (HS Code + Documents & Permits)
Customs clearance of various polishes and creams for shining shoes or leather — leather and shoe polishes/creams are among the products that play an important role in leather and footwear industries. Importing and clearing these products require familiarity with customs regulations and standards related to chemical and cosmetical-hygienic materials. Given their widespread use in preserving and enhancing the quality of shoes and leather goods, demand is consistently active, and strict compliance with customs rules and regulations is essential during clearance.
For a time and cost estimate of clearing shoe & leather polishes/creams, contact the experts at Saba Tarkhis.
Instant Free Consultation1) Shoe & Leather Polishes and Creams
Shoe & leather polishes and creams — these care products are designed specifically to maintain natural and synthetic leathers. They are generally divided into three groups:
Natural waxes: Made from ingredients such as beeswax, lanolin, and natural oils, and used mostly for natural leather goods. Thanks to their softening and high penetration properties, they are preferred for premium and delicate leathers.
Synthetic waxes: Produced from chemical compounds like polymers and silicones. These are used more for synthetic leathers or fabric with leather coatings. Synthetic waxes usually have longer service life and greater resistance to water and harsh environmental conditions.
Polishing creams: Besides forming a glossy protective layer on leather, they moisturize to prevent drying and cracking. These creams typically contain mineral or vegetable oils, penetrate deeply, and help preserve leather.
2) Tariff & HS Code for Leather/Shoe Polishes and Creams
For importing leather and shoe polishes/creams, pay close attention to their customs tariff code. These products generally fall under “Polishes and creams” with HS Code 3405. However, depending on specific formulations and end-use, the exact code may vary — especially where special chemical substances or additives are present.
| Goods | Short Description | HS Code |
|---|---|---|
| Shoe/leather polish/cream | Polishing agents for leather/shoes (natural/synthetic) | 3405 |
Final subheading depends on composition (natural/synthetic), form of supply, solvent base, and end-use.
3) Key Points in Clearing Shoe & Leather Polishes/Creams
1. Standards & health permits: In some cases, importing polishes/creams requires health approvals from the National Standards Organization or the Ministry of Health, especially for products containing chemical or potentially polluting substances. Knowing the formula and assessing human/environmental safety matters in the clearance process.
2. Packaging & labeling: Compliance with packaging and labeling standards is compulsory. Labels must include product name, chemical composition, production date, expiry date, and country of origin. Strict adherence helps avoid clearance delays and penalties.
3. Customs valuation & duties calculation: Valuation based on international pricing and supplier invoices is crucial. Any discrepancy can pause clearance or add costs. Provide accurate, transparent documents such as purchase invoices and contracts.
4. Taxes & import duties: Duty rates depend on HS code and country of origin. Certain trade agreements between Iran and the exporting country may reduce or exempt duties. Knowing current agreements can lower clearance costs.
4) Exporter/Importer Countries, Trade Volume & Global Turnover
Exporter countries of shoe/leather polish & cream
Germany: A leading exporter of polishes and creams. German manufacturers, known for advanced technologies and high-quality formulations, supply professional and natural products for luxury leather. Global demand for these brands is strong.
Germany: A leading exporter of polishes and creams. German manufacturers, known for advanced technologies and high-quality formulations, supply professional and natural products for luxury leather. Global demand for these brands is strong.
Italy: With a long-standing leather and footwear industry, Italy leads in producing care products for premium leather. Beyond quality production, it is a major exporter, with wide markets stemming from its expertise in leather-care formulations.
China: Due to mass production and competitive pricing, China supplies a significant share of Iran’s and many other countries’ imports. Chinese polishes/creams are widely available and budget-friendly.
France: Another major producer of leather care goods. French companies are active in the premium segment for both natural and synthetic leathers and hold a share of global exports.
Importer countries of shoe/leather polish & cream
Iran: As a significant leather-goods producer, Iran imports extensively from Germany, Italy, and China for footwear and leather industries, as well as household retail demand.
Iran: As a significant leather-goods producer, Iran imports extensively from Germany, Italy, and China for footwear and leather industries, as well as household retail demand.
USA: One of the largest importers with a vast consumer market for leather care. Many imported products are sourced from Europe and Asia.
India: Despite being a major leather producer/exporter, it imports care and polishing materials from Europe and China for its extensive leather sector.
UK: Also a major importer, sourcing quality care products from Germany, Italy, and France for its footwear/leather industries.
Import/export volume of polishes & creams to/from Iran — Import volume
Demand from leather and footwear industries keeps annual imports rising. Large quantities are imported each year, mainly from China, Germany, and Italy, with China leading due to competitive prices. Iran’s exports of these products are more limited,
primarily going to neighboring countries such as Iraq and Afghanistan. As Iran’s leather/footwear industry develops, exports are expected to grow.
Demand from leather and footwear industries keeps annual imports rising. Large quantities are imported each year, mainly from China, Germany, and Italy, with China leading due to competitive prices. Iran’s exports of these products are more limited,
primarily going to neighboring countries such as Iraq and Afghanistan. As Iran’s leather/footwear industry develops, exports are expected to grow.
Global turnover of shoe/leather polishes & creams (latest trade stats)
Global turnover reaches billions of dollars annually. European countries like Germany, Italy, and France are principal producers, while China’s scale and pricing command a large market share. Demand is rising in countries with advanced leather industries such as the USA, Italy, and India.
Global turnover reaches billions of dollars annually. European countries like Germany, Italy, and France are principal producers, while China’s scale and pricing command a large market share. Demand is rising in countries with advanced leather industries such as the USA, Italy, and India.
5) Required Documents for Clearing Polishes & Creams
To clear shoe/leather polishes and creams, prepare and submit the following documents accurately. They are essential to streamline clearance and avoid potential issues.
1. Proforma Invoice
Issued by the seller with details such as item, quantity, price, and payment/delivery terms. It is the basis for order registration and import and must be complete for customs.
2. Commercial Invoice
Issued after the purchase is finalized, showing final price, units, payment terms, and related costs. It is key for customs valuation and duty calculation.
3. Packing List
Shows packaging details, including number of packages and their net/gross weights. Helps customs verify physical cargo and match documents.
4. Certificate of Origin
Indicates the producing country and is issued by the origin country’s chamber of commerce. It directly affects duty treatment (preferential or not).
5. Standards/Health permits (if required)
Some polishes/creams need approvals from the National Standards Organization or the Ministry of Health, especially if special chemicals are present. Obtain them before clearance.
6. Bill of Lading
A key transport document issued by the carrier detailing shipment, consignor/consignee, and carriage terms. Mandatory for clearance.
7. Customs Declaration Form
Prepared by the importer or broker, including HS code, value, and full item details. Must be completed precisely.
8. Inspection Certificate
If pre-shipment or post-arrival inspection is required, submit an inspection certificate from a recognized entity confirming compliance.
9. Certificate of Analysis
If specific chemicals are present, a CoA confirming composition and quality may be required, typically issued by the manufacturer or accredited labs.
10. Business Card (Import License)
The importer must hold a valid business card (chamber-issued import license) to bring goods into the country.
11. Cargo Insurance Policy
Confirms the shipment is insured during transit to cover potential loss or damage.
12. Undertaking of Duties/Taxes Payment
After valuation, duties/taxes must be paid. Provide proof/undertaking of payment for final release.
1. Proforma Invoice
Issued by the seller with details such as item, quantity, price, and payment/delivery terms. It is the basis for order registration and import and must be complete for customs.
2. Commercial Invoice
Issued after the purchase is finalized, showing final price, units, payment terms, and related costs. It is key for customs valuation and duty calculation.
3. Packing List
Shows packaging details, including number of packages and their net/gross weights. Helps customs verify physical cargo and match documents.
4. Certificate of Origin
Indicates the producing country and is issued by the origin country’s chamber of commerce. It directly affects duty treatment (preferential or not).
5. Standards/Health permits (if required)
Some polishes/creams need approvals from the National Standards Organization or the Ministry of Health, especially if special chemicals are present. Obtain them before clearance.
6. Bill of Lading
A key transport document issued by the carrier detailing shipment, consignor/consignee, and carriage terms. Mandatory for clearance.
7. Customs Declaration Form
Prepared by the importer or broker, including HS code, value, and full item details. Must be completed precisely.
8. Inspection Certificate
If pre-shipment or post-arrival inspection is required, submit an inspection certificate from a recognized entity confirming compliance.
9. Certificate of Analysis
If specific chemicals are present, a CoA confirming composition and quality may be required, typically issued by the manufacturer or accredited labs.
10. Business Card (Import License)
The importer must hold a valid business card (chamber-issued import license) to bring goods into the country.
11. Cargo Insurance Policy
Confirms the shipment is insured during transit to cover potential loss or damage.
12. Undertaking of Duties/Taxes Payment
After valuation, duties/taxes must be paid. Provide proof/undertaking of payment for final release.
6) The Easiest, Best Way to Clear
Use a licensed customs broker: Choosing a reputable, experienced broker streamlines the process and prevents issues.
Prepare documents and certificates: Ensure all required paperwork is ready — invoices, standards/health certificates, and transport docs — to speed release.
Diligent process follow-up: Closely track each step, coordinate with customs, and resolve issues quickly to avoid delays and legal problems.
Prepare documents and certificates: Ensure all required paperwork is ready — invoices, standards/health certificates, and transport docs — to speed release.
Diligent process follow-up: Closely track each step, coordinate with customs, and resolve issues quickly to avoid delays and legal problems.
FAQs
What is the HS Code for shoe/leather polishes and creams?
They are generally classified under 3405; final determination depends on composition (natural/synthetic), solvent base, and intended use.
Which permits are needed for import?
As applicable: approvals from the National Standards Organization and/or the Ministry of Health for sensitive formulations, plus compliant labeling and packaging.
What are the basic documents for clearance?
Proforma & Commercial invoices, packing list, bill of lading, certificate of origin, customs declaration, cargo insurance, standards/health certificates (if needed), and import license.
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Summary & Call to Action
Due to varied formulations and standards/health requirements, clearing polishes/creams demands accuracy in HS, documentation, and permits. Saba Tarkhis is here to help you complete the process swiftly and cost-effectively.
Request Expert Consultation Get a Clearance ProformaPremium Clearance Services by Saba Brokerage
With extensive experience in specialized goods clearance, Saba Brokerage is an excellent choice to facilitate imports/exports of shoe & leather polishes/creams. We deliver end-to-end, comprehensive services throughout the entire process. Key services include:
1. Expert advice on tariff selection & customs valuation: Our specialists, fully versed in regulations and tariff updates, guide you to the correct HS code and accurate valuation, preventing disputes and extra costs while speeding clearance.
2. Preparing & obtaining required documents/permits: Leveraging our experience with health and standards approvals, we secure the necessary permits for importing polishes/creams, so you can complete clearance with confidence.
3. Diligent follow-up across all steps: From filing the declaration to final delivery, our professional team closely tracks every stage — particularly when specialized checks like sampling or health testing are required.
4. Reducing costs & lead time: Our professional handling not only accelerates clearance but also helps avoid delay-related penalties and unnecessary expenses.
