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Customs Clearance of Watch Parts & Components in Iran (HS Codes, Documents, Steps, and Permits)
Customs clearance of watch parts & components Customs clearance of watch parts and components, as one of the essential stages in the supply chain of the watchmaking industry, is of special importance. Due to the high variety of parts and the sensitivities in the watch market, this process requires precision and advanced expertise. Importers and manufacturers of watches must be fully familiar with the various stages of this process, including importation, compliance with international standards, reviewing customs tariffs, and, finally, customs clearance. Such familiarity can help optimize time, reduce costs, and prevent potential problems at customs.
For an estimate of the time and cost of watch parts & components clearance, contact the experts at Saba Tarkhis.
Instant Free Consultation1) Introduction & Applications of Watch Parts and Components
Watch parts and components refer to a broad set of mechanical and electronic parts, each directly affecting the final performance and durability of a watch. Below is a more specialized review of some of these parts:
Watch Movement:
The watch movement, the beating heart of any watch, is responsible for controlling and keeping time. This complex part can be mechanical, quartz, or automatic. Mechanical movements operate with gears and springs and require manual winding. Quartz movements use a quartz crystal and battery power to display time with high accuracy. Automatic movements combine mechanical technology with self-winding functionality, powered by wrist motion.
Hands:
Watch hands display the time and, depending on the design, may include hour, minute, second hands, and even hands for date, moon phase, or other specialized indicators. They are made from various materials such as precious metals, stainless steel, or lighter materials like aluminum.
Case:
The case plays the main role in protecting the movement and other internal parts. It is made of materials such as stainless steel, titanium, gold, or advanced composites. The case must be designed to offer strength as well as resistance to water, impact, and corrosion. Additionally, case design plays a major role in the watch’s visual appeal.
Crystal:
The watch crystal is the transparent protective part shielding the dial from external damage. Crystals are typically made from sapphire crystal, mineral glass, or resilient plastics. Sapphire is preferred for luxury watches due to its hardness and scratch resistance, while mineral glass, thanks to its reasonable price and acceptable resistance, is common in mid-range watches.
Strap or Bracelet:
The strap connects the watch to the wrist and is vital for comfort and style. Straps may be made from natural or synthetic leather, stainless steel, gold, silicone, or composite materials. The right strap not only improves comfort but can also increase the watch’s value and appeal.
Dial:
The dial is the surface on which the hands move and enables the user to read time. Dials can feature various designs and indices depending on the type and brand. They are commonly made of brass, aluminum, or silver and finished with special coatings such as lacquer, gold/silver plating, or even gemstones.
Watch Movement:
The watch movement, the beating heart of any watch, is responsible for controlling and keeping time. This complex part can be mechanical, quartz, or automatic. Mechanical movements operate with gears and springs and require manual winding. Quartz movements use a quartz crystal and battery power to display time with high accuracy. Automatic movements combine mechanical technology with self-winding functionality, powered by wrist motion.
Hands:
Watch hands display the time and, depending on the design, may include hour, minute, second hands, and even hands for date, moon phase, or other specialized indicators. They are made from various materials such as precious metals, stainless steel, or lighter materials like aluminum.
Case:
The case plays the main role in protecting the movement and other internal parts. It is made of materials such as stainless steel, titanium, gold, or advanced composites. The case must be designed to offer strength as well as resistance to water, impact, and corrosion. Additionally, case design plays a major role in the watch’s visual appeal.
Crystal:
The watch crystal is the transparent protective part shielding the dial from external damage. Crystals are typically made from sapphire crystal, mineral glass, or resilient plastics. Sapphire is preferred for luxury watches due to its hardness and scratch resistance, while mineral glass, thanks to its reasonable price and acceptable resistance, is common in mid-range watches.
Strap or Bracelet:
The strap connects the watch to the wrist and is vital for comfort and style. Straps may be made from natural or synthetic leather, stainless steel, gold, silicone, or composite materials. The right strap not only improves comfort but can also increase the watch’s value and appeal.
Dial:
The dial is the surface on which the hands move and enables the user to read time. Dials can feature various designs and indices depending on the type and brand. They are commonly made of brass, aluminum, or silver and finished with special coatings such as lacquer, gold/silver plating, or even gemstones.
2) Customs Tariffs & HS Codes for Watch Parts and Components
For importing watch parts and components into Iran, accurate identification of the HS (Harmonized System) codes is crucial. Each part has specific HS codes by which customs tariffs are determined. For example:
Watch movements: classified under HS 9108 and covering various movement types.
Cases and crystals: these may fall under 9110 and 9114, with different tariffs depending on material and application.
Selecting the correct codes and being aware of possible changes in customs tariffs is vital and can directly affect import costs.
Watch movements: classified under HS 9108 and covering various movement types.
Cases and crystals: these may fall under 9110 and 9114, with different tariffs depending on material and application.
Selecting the correct codes and being aware of possible changes in customs tariffs is vital and can directly affect import costs.
| Item/Goods | Short Description | HS Code |
|---|---|---|
| Watch Movement | Mechanical/Quartz/Automatic | 9108 |
| Case | Watch case/body parts | 9110 |
| Crystal | Crystal, dial and parts | 9114 |
The exact subheading depends on material, application, assembly status, and technical documentation.
3) Customs Clearance Process for Watch Parts & Components
Clearing watch parts and components is a multi-stage, precise process that includes the following:
Preparing and submitting required documents: Essential documents include commercial invoices, bills of lading, certificates of origin, and packing lists. These must be prepared accurately and completely and submitted to customs to avoid clearance issues.
Compliance with national and international standards: Imports of watch parts must comply with international and national quality standards. Providing valid certificates from manufacturers to prove quality and authenticity is essential.
Physical and quantitative inspection of parts: Customs may require physical inspection of imported parts, including checking quantities and types, matching documents, and assessing overall quality.
Payment of customs duties and charges: After determining duties based on HS codes, payments are made. This is the final stage, after which the goods are released.
Use of online customs systems: Using online customs systems for pre-declaration and accelerating clearance can reduce time and optimize related costs.
Preparing and submitting required documents: Essential documents include commercial invoices, bills of lading, certificates of origin, and packing lists. These must be prepared accurately and completely and submitted to customs to avoid clearance issues.
Compliance with national and international standards: Imports of watch parts must comply with international and national quality standards. Providing valid certificates from manufacturers to prove quality and authenticity is essential.
Physical and quantitative inspection of parts: Customs may require physical inspection of imported parts, including checking quantities and types, matching documents, and assessing overall quality.
Payment of customs duties and charges: After determining duties based on HS codes, payments are made. This is the final stage, after which the goods are released.
Use of online customs systems: Using online customs systems for pre-declaration and accelerating clearance can reduce time and optimize related costs.
4) Exporting and Importing Countries for Watch Parts & Components
Switzerland, Japan, China, and Germany are recognized as the largest producers and exporters of watch parts worldwide. Owing to advanced technology and a long track record in watch and component production, these countries hold a large share of the global market. On the other hand, European countries, the United States, and some Asian countries are the largest importers of these parts. Their watch industries are highly developed and require a steady supply of high-quality parts and components.
5) Special Import/Export Conditions for Watch Parts in Iran
Iran, due to reliance on importing watch parts from producing countries, has become an important import market in this field. Imports mainly come from Switzerland, China, Japan, and Taiwan. Given the high quality and variety from these countries, they are the main suppliers to Iran. In terms of exports, Iran exports on a limited basis to neighboring countries such as Iraq, Afghanistan, and Persian Gulf countries. However, due to production constraints and limited access to advanced technology, most activity is focused on imports.
6) Global Circulation and Exporting/Importing Countries
Globally, countries such as Switzerland, China, Japan, and Germany are the largest exporters of watch parts, with advanced watch and component manufacturing technologies. Major importers include European countries, the United States, and some Asian countries where the watch industry is highly developed.
7) Detailed Customs Clearance Process for Watch Parts & Components
Clearing watch parts and components is a multi-stage process that requires attention to detail and strict compliance with customs laws and regulations. The process includes the following steps:
Preparing and submitting required documents:
One of the first and most important stages is preparing and submitting accurate, complete documents. These include the Invoice, Bill of Lading, Certificate of Origin, Packing List, and other relevant documents. Each must be fully and correctly prepared and submitted at the time of declaration. Documents must not only provide precise cargo details but also be drafted in accordance with international standards and regulations.
Compliance with national and international standards:
All imported parts must comply with global quality standards and national regulations. Providing valid certificates from manufacturers to prove quality and authenticity is mandatory. These typically include Quality Certificates and international standards such as ISO or CE. Any non-compliance can lead to rejection or delays at customs.
Physical and quantitative inspection of parts:
After the cargo arrives at customs, physical and quantitative inspections may be required to ensure quantity, type, and quality match the submitted documents. Any discrepancies may cause delays, fines, or even seizure.
Payment of customs costs and duties:
After inspections and document approvals, the final stage is paying customs costs and applicable duties, calculated based on HS codes and the total cargo value. Full awareness of current tariffs and calculation methods is critical. Any delay in payment can postpone clearance.
Use of online customs systems:
In recent years, the use of online customs systems has grown significantly to speed up clearance. Systems such as EPL (Electronic Payment Ledger) and the National Trade System (NTS) enable online pre-declaration, document submission, and payments—reducing clearance time, improving accuracy, and lowering related costs.
Preparing and submitting required documents:
One of the first and most important stages is preparing and submitting accurate, complete documents. These include the Invoice, Bill of Lading, Certificate of Origin, Packing List, and other relevant documents. Each must be fully and correctly prepared and submitted at the time of declaration. Documents must not only provide precise cargo details but also be drafted in accordance with international standards and regulations.
Compliance with national and international standards:
All imported parts must comply with global quality standards and national regulations. Providing valid certificates from manufacturers to prove quality and authenticity is mandatory. These typically include Quality Certificates and international standards such as ISO or CE. Any non-compliance can lead to rejection or delays at customs.
Physical and quantitative inspection of parts:
After the cargo arrives at customs, physical and quantitative inspections may be required to ensure quantity, type, and quality match the submitted documents. Any discrepancies may cause delays, fines, or even seizure.
Payment of customs costs and duties:
After inspections and document approvals, the final stage is paying customs costs and applicable duties, calculated based on HS codes and the total cargo value. Full awareness of current tariffs and calculation methods is critical. Any delay in payment can postpone clearance.
Use of online customs systems:
In recent years, the use of online customs systems has grown significantly to speed up clearance. Systems such as EPL (Electronic Payment Ledger) and the National Trade System (NTS) enable online pre-declaration, document submission, and payments—reducing clearance time, improving accuracy, and lowering related costs.
8) Required Documents for Clearing Watch Parts & Components
To clear watch parts from customs, preparing and submitting essential documents is highly important. These must be prepared accurately and completely and delivered to customs so clearance proceeds without problems or delays. Key documents include:
1. Invoice
Prepared by the seller/exporter, it contains detailed information about purchased goods, unit price, total cargo value, payment terms, and buyer/seller details. It is a principal document for customs declaration.
2. Bill of Lading
Issued by the carrier and including information such as type of goods, weight, quantities, origin and destination, and carrier details. It confirms the cargo has been dispatched to the intended destination.
3. Certificate of Origin
Specifies the country of production/export, issued by the chamber of commerce in the exporting country. It is necessary for determining customs tariffs and benefiting from possible exemptions.
4. Packing List
Provides details on packaging method, number of packages, the weight of each package, and contents. It helps customs perform more accurate physical inspections and verify alignment with documents.
5. Quality and Compliance Certificates
Documents confirming quality and authenticity according to international and national standards. These may include ISO, CE, or origin-specific certifications.
6. Proforma Invoice
The initial invoice sent to the buyer before the transaction. It contains information similar to the final invoice and serves as the basis for agreement between buyer and seller.
7. Special Permits
Depending on the type/nature of imported parts, special permits may be required from relevant authorities, such as the Ministry of Industry, Mine and Trade, the Standards Organization, or other bodies.
8. Import Declaration
Completed by the importer and submitted to customs; it contains precise information on the imported goods, their value, and financial details and is used to calculate duties and taxes.
9. Insurance Policy
Insures imported goods against various risks during transport. Issued by the insurance company, it includes precise cargo specifications and policy conditions.
10. Commercial Card
A license issued by the chamber of commerce to individuals or companies intending to import/export. It is one of the essential documents for customs clearance.
11. Order Registration Permit
Issued by the Ministry of Industry, Mine and Trade, allowing the importer to import their goods. It must be obtained before the goods arrive at customs.
12. Customs Duty Payment Receipt
Evidence of payment of customs duties and charges related to the imported goods. Submission is required for final clearance.
13. Clearance Document
The final document issued after completing all customs procedures and payments. It authorizes the importer to take delivery of the goods from customs.
Accurate preparation and review of these documents are essential so the clearance process proceeds smoothly. Working with an experienced licensed customs broker can greatly help prepare and submit these documents and prevent delays and potential issues.
1. Invoice
Prepared by the seller/exporter, it contains detailed information about purchased goods, unit price, total cargo value, payment terms, and buyer/seller details. It is a principal document for customs declaration.
2. Bill of Lading
Issued by the carrier and including information such as type of goods, weight, quantities, origin and destination, and carrier details. It confirms the cargo has been dispatched to the intended destination.
3. Certificate of Origin
Specifies the country of production/export, issued by the chamber of commerce in the exporting country. It is necessary for determining customs tariffs and benefiting from possible exemptions.
4. Packing List
Provides details on packaging method, number of packages, the weight of each package, and contents. It helps customs perform more accurate physical inspections and verify alignment with documents.
5. Quality and Compliance Certificates
Documents confirming quality and authenticity according to international and national standards. These may include ISO, CE, or origin-specific certifications.
6. Proforma Invoice
The initial invoice sent to the buyer before the transaction. It contains information similar to the final invoice and serves as the basis for agreement between buyer and seller.
7. Special Permits
Depending on the type/nature of imported parts, special permits may be required from relevant authorities, such as the Ministry of Industry, Mine and Trade, the Standards Organization, or other bodies.
8. Import Declaration
Completed by the importer and submitted to customs; it contains precise information on the imported goods, their value, and financial details and is used to calculate duties and taxes.
9. Insurance Policy
Insures imported goods against various risks during transport. Issued by the insurance company, it includes precise cargo specifications and policy conditions.
10. Commercial Card
A license issued by the chamber of commerce to individuals or companies intending to import/export. It is one of the essential documents for customs clearance.
11. Order Registration Permit
Issued by the Ministry of Industry, Mine and Trade, allowing the importer to import their goods. It must be obtained before the goods arrive at customs.
12. Customs Duty Payment Receipt
Evidence of payment of customs duties and charges related to the imported goods. Submission is required for final clearance.
13. Clearance Document
The final document issued after completing all customs procedures and payments. It authorizes the importer to take delivery of the goods from customs.
Accurate preparation and review of these documents are essential so the clearance process proceeds smoothly. Working with an experienced licensed customs broker can greatly help prepare and submit these documents and prevent delays and potential issues.
Need precise HS Code determination, permits, and document preparation? Our team manages the case end-to-end.
Submit Proforma RequestFrequently Asked Questions
How are HS Codes for watch parts determined?
Per your text, movements fall under 9108 and case/crystal parts under 9110/9114; final determination is based on technical documents and customs consultation.
Which documents are essential for clearance?
Invoice, bill of lading, certificate of origin, packing list, quality/standard certificates, order registration, and duty payment receipt per your “Required Documents” section.
How can we shorten clearance time?
Use online systems (EPL/National Trade System), prepare documents accurately, and work with a licensed customs broker as recommended in your process section.
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Summary & Call to Action
Relying on practical experience, the Saba Tarkhis team handles HS determination, permits, and rapid clearance of watch parts and components professionally.
Request Expert Consultation Get Customs Clearance QuoteSpecial Customs Clearance Services by Saba Brokerage
With years of experience in customs clearance and brokerage services, Saba Brokerage is ready to provide specialized services for clearing watch parts and components. Our services include:
Specialized consulting: By offering accurate, practical advice on selecting the correct HS code and preparing required documents, your clearance process is facilitated and customs issues are prevented.
Continuous tracking and supervision: From cargo arrival to final clearance, our team performs precise follow-ups to ensure all stages are completed correctly and without delay reducing risk and improving performance.
Use of online systems: Leveraging up-to-date customs e-systems enables pre-declaration and customs procedures with high speed and accuracy, minimizing clearance time.
Cost optimization: With precise knowledge of current tariffs and regulations, we help reduce import and clearance costs and make the best use of your resources.
Expedited clearance: Relying on our team’s experience and technical knowledge, your watch parts clearance is completed faster, reducing costs and increasing profitability.
By using these services, you can benefit from high efficiency and lower costs throughout your customs clearance process.
