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Wood Pulp Customs Clearance in Iran (HS Codes + Documents & Permits)
Wood pulp is a vital feedstock for paper and paperboard manufacturing and serves as the primary input across many paper products. Given its strategic role, it is produced widely and exported to countries that rely on imports. In Iran, paper, packaging, and printing industries consistently require wood pulp imports. As a critical link in the supply chain, wood pulp customs clearance is a sensitive step that demands precise familiarity with customs rules and trade regulations.
To estimate the time and cost of wood pulp clearance, contact the Saba Tarkhis experts.
Free & Instant Consultation1) Types of Wood Pulp & Key Features + HS Codes
Mechanical Pulp
Produced by mechanically grinding wood into pulp, this grade retains higher lignin content, which lowers strength and longevity. Features: lower production cost; typically used in low-durability grades such as newsprint; reduced permanence. HS Code 4701: mechanical wood pulp.
Chemical Pulp
Produced by chemical processes that remove lignin and impurities. The most common route is the Kraft (sulphate) process. Features: higher quality and durability; used for writing/printing and tissue; better resistance to yellowing. HS Code 4703: chemical wood pulp, Kraft/sulphate. HS Code 4702: other chemical wood pulp.
Semi-Chemical Pulp
Combines mechanical and chemical steps, yielding medium properties. Common in industrial papers and packaging boards. Features: durability above mechanical but below chemical pulps; suitable for containerboard and industrial grades. HS Code 4705: semi-chemical wood pulp.
Recycled Pulp
Made from recovered paper and board. An environmentally favorable option widely used in lower-cost grades such as newsprint and certain packaging. HS Code 4706: pulps of fibrous cellulosic waste paper or paperboard.
| Pulp Type | Short Description | HS Code |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanical | Lower cost, lower permanence, newsprint | 4701 |
| Chemical (other) | Higher quality, better anti-yellowing | 4702 |
| Chemical Kraft/Sulphate | Most common industrial route (Kraft) | 4703 |
| Semi-Chemical | Mid-grade, ideal for packaging board | 4705 |
| Recycled | Secondary source, eco-friendly option | 4706 |
2) Special Conditions for Importing & Exporting Wood Pulp
Given its strategic role in paper, paperboard, and packaging, wood pulp imports are subject to specific rules. A key requirement is environmental compliance. Producer countries often enforce strict forestry and processing regulations to prevent deforestation and protect ecosystems—covering felling limits and low-impact processing. Iranian importers should verify sustainable sourcing and appropriate environmental approvals. Some producer nations cap exports to preserve resources, so exporters must hold valid export permits. Typical sources like Canada, Sweden, and Finland apply detailed controls that importers should factor into compliance planning.
3) Iran’s Wood Pulp Import/Export Volumes
Iran is among the region’s largest wood pulp importers due to limited domestic wood resources. Rising demand from printing, packaging, and paper mills has driven imports upward in recent years. Each year, several hundred thousand tonnes—primarily from Canada, Sweden, and Russia—are imported to meet industrial needs. Iran is not an exporter of wood pulp; major export flows originate from countries with abundant forests, such as Canada and the Nordics.
4) Global Wood Pulp Trade
Global wood pulp trade underpins the forestry and paper value chain, amounting to many billions of dollars annually. Exporters are typically forest-rich, industrialized countries, while importers are those with extensive paper, board, and packaging demand. Producer nations benefit from high-value exports; import-reliant countries secure critical raw materials for downstream industries.
5) Major Wood Pulp Exporters
- Canada: one of the largest global producers/exporters with broad market reach.
- Sweden & Finland: advanced forestry and paper industries; leading European exporters.
- Russia: vast forest resources; a key supplier to Asian markets, including Iran.
- United States: a major exporter serving Europe and Asia.
6) Major Wood Pulp Importers
- China: the largest global importer, driven by paper and packaging demand.
- India: rapid growth in printing and packaging fuels strong imports.
- Iran: among the biggest importers in its region due to high domestic demand.
- Germany: a major European importer given high paper consumption.
7) Required Documents for Wood Pulp Clearance
A complete and accurate documentation set is essential to verify ownership, specifications, and compliance with customs and import rules, ensuring a smooth clearance process.
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1. Bill of Lading
Issued by the carrier and detailing mode, origin, destination, and cargo particulars; serves as a key title and is required for clearance. -
2. Commercial Invoice
Specifies price, technical description, pulp type, quantity, and weight; used to determine customs value and duties. -
3. Certificate of Origin
Confirms the producing country; often issued by the exporter’s chamber of commerce and may enable preferential tariffs. -
4. Customs Declaration
Importer’s filing to declare entry, including HS Codes, values, and transport details. -
5. Inspection Certificate (if required)
Quality/condition verification by accredited inspection companies or representatives. -
6. Health Certificate (if required)
Demonstrates compliance with sanitary/environmental criteria for natural resource products. -
7. Environmental Approvals
Approvals from competent authorities for forestry-linked goods, ensuring environmental compliance. -
8. Valuation Certificate
Independent confirmation that invoiced prices reflect fair customs value. -
9. Order Registration in Iran’s Trade System
Pre-import order registration within the National Trade System. -
10. Import License from MIMT (MoI&T)
Mandatory import license from the Ministry of Industry, Mine & Trade confirming eligibility and compliance.
Need precise HS classification, environmental permits, and document preparation? Our team manages the entire case end-to-end.
Request a Proforma QuoteFrequently Asked Questions
What are the HS Codes for wood pulp?
By type: Mechanical 4701; Chemical (other) 4702; Kraft/Sulphate 4703; Semi-chemical 4705; Recycled 4706.
Which documents and permits are required for clearance?
Bill of Lading, Commercial Invoice, Certificate of Origin, Customs Declaration, Inspection/Health Certificates (as applicable), Environmental approvals, Valuation Certificate, Order Registration, and MIMT import license.
Does Iran export wood pulp?
No. Due to limited wood resources, Iran is predominantly an importer; exports are led by countries like Canada and the Nordics.
Main sources of Iran’s pulp imports?
Canada, Sweden, and Russia are among Iran’s principal suppliers.
Premium Customs Services by Saba Brokerage
Saba Brokerage is a trusted, specialist customs broker in Iran offering end-to-end clearance solutions, including for wood pulp:
Specialist Consulting: Accurate HS classification and documentation planning to avoid penalties and delays.
Full Customs Handling: From document preparation to filing declarations, coordination with customs, and continuous follow-up.
Proactive Tracking: We monitor every step to prevent bottlenecks and accelerate release.
Tariff & Fiscal Facilitation: Preferential coordination to streamline duty/tax payments where applicable.
Insurance & Risk Management: Coverage across transit and robust risk controls for safe delivery.
Leverage our expert team for a faster, simpler, and fully compliant clearance experience.
