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Customs Clearance of Fiber Optics | HS 85447010, Documents, Standards, and CRA PermitCustoms clearance of fiber optics and fiber-optic cables in Iran; HS 85447010, ISO/IEC, TIA, ITU-T standards, CRA permits & documents, and Saba Tarkhis specialized services.

Customs Clearance of Fiber Optics and Fiber-Optic Cables in Iran (HS Code + Documents & Permits)

Customs clearance of fiber optics and fiber-optic cables from customs, as one of the sensitive and complex stages in the supply chain of telecom equipment, is of particular importance. Fiber optics, as one of the most advanced data-transmission technologies, plays a key role in the development and maintenance of modern communication networks. Owing to its unique capabilities in high-speed and high-quality information transfer, this technology holds a vital position across many industries—especially telecommunications and information technology. The clearance process for these devices, due to their sensitivity and technical complexities, requires deep specialized knowledge and full awareness of customs regulations.

For an estimate of the time and cost of clearing fiber optics and fiber cables, contact the experts at Saba Tarkhis.

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1) Fiber Optics

Fiber optics is an advanced medium for transmitting information made from extremely thin glass or plastic cores. These cores can carry data as light pulses. Thanks to the specific physical properties of the materials used to construct optical fiber, this technology offers very high bandwidth and can transmit information at extremely high speeds with minimal signal loss over long distances. These features make fiber optics an ideal solution for telecom and internet networks.

2) Structure and Features of Fiber Optics

Fiber optics consists of several layers:
  • Core: The central part of the optical fiber where light is transmitted. It is usually made of high-purity glass or plastic and has a very small diameter.
  • Cladding: The layer surrounding the core that enables total internal reflection so the light is efficiently guided within the core.
  • Coating: The protective layer covering the cladding that shields the fiber against mechanical damage and moisture.

3) Applications of Fiber Optics Across Industries

Due to its unique characteristics, fiber optics is used in many industries and diverse applications:

Communication & Telecommunications Networks

As the backbone of communication and telecom networks, fiber optics enables data transmission at gigabits-per-second and even terabits-per-second rates.
This technology is used in wide-area, local, and metropolitan networks (WAN, LAN, MAN) and, thanks to its significant reduction of electromagnetic interference (EMI), is the best option for secure, high-quality communications.
In passive optical networks (PON), fiber optics enables direct data delivery to homes (FTTH) and offices (FTTO).

Data Centers

In data centers, fiber optics connects servers, switches, and routers. This is vital due to the fiber’s ability to transfer large volumes of data over long distances at high speeds without quality loss.
Using fiber in data centers reduces latency and increases network throughput.

Local & Urban Optical Networks (FTTH, FTTC)

Fiber optics is used to connect end users directly to internet and telecom networks with the highest speed and quality. This technology is deployed across urban and local distribution networks (such as FTTC and FTTN) to deliver broadband services.

Medical Industry

Fiber optics is used in advanced medical devices such as endoscopy systems and optical imaging. Thanks to its precision and immunity to electromagnetic fields in hospital environments, it is an ideal option for transmitting sensitive medical data.
It is also used in hospital communications to transfer large datasets, such as radiology images and patient data.

Defense & Military Industries

In defense, fiber optics is used to transmit sensitive and confidential data in secure environments. Due to high resistance to electromagnetic interference and long-distance transmission without quality loss, it is widely used in military communication networks.

Automotive Industry

Modern vehicles use fiber optics for internal communication systems. This reduces wiring weight and boosts data-transfer speed in multimedia and navigation systems.

4) Key Points for Clearing Fiber Optics and Fiber-Optic Cables from Customs

Clearing fiber optics and fiber-optic cables from customs is a sensitive, complex process requiring technical detail awareness and strict compliance with customs regulations. Given their importance in communication infrastructure, these devices receive special attention from regulatory and customs bodies. To ensure success, carefully observe the following:
1. Customs Tariff Code (HS Code)
The HS Code is an international standard identifier used to classify goods for import and export. Fiber-optic cables fall under electronic goods and are classified under tariff code 85447010.
Choosing this code precisely in customs declarations is essential; inaccuracies can cause legal issues, cost increases, and even seizure of goods. Therefore, the code must be correctly stated across all commercial documents, including invoices and customs declarations.

2. Standards and Quality Certificates
Fiber optics and their cables must be produced and imported in accordance with recognized national and international standards. Some of the most important include:
ISO/IEC 11801: A global standard for designing and installing fiber-optic cabling in communications networks.
TIA-568: A standard for cabling and installing fiber-optic cables in local area networks (LAN).
ITU-T G.652: A standard defining performance specs for single-mode optical fiber.
In Iran, the Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) oversees compliance with these standards. The authority may conduct quality inspections on imported goods and, if they do not meet the specified standards, prevent clearance.

3. Order Registration & the Comprehensive Trade System
All importers of fiber-optic goods must complete order registration via the Comprehensive Trade System. Designed to unify foreign trade processes, this system allows importers to register and track orders online.
Order registration must be completed before goods enter the country and includes information such as product type, quantity, country of origin, and HS Code. Failure to register correctly and on time can lead to delays in clearance or even return of goods to the origin country.

4. Evaluation and Inspection
After goods arrive at customs, officers conduct physical and documentary evaluations. These checks verify conformity of goods with submitted documents, including quantity, technical specs, and compliance with required standards.
Any discrepancies or documentation deficiencies at this stage can cause delays or even seizure. Ensure all documents are accurately prepared and submitted.

5. Payment of Duties and Taxes
Paying customs duties and value-added tax (VAT) is a final, essential step for clearance. The amount depends on product value, product type (per HS Code), and import conditions.
Duties are determined by the HS Code and may include extra charges such as inspection or quality-testing fees. Timely, complete payment is critical; any delay or shortfall can halt clearance and add costs.

5) Conditions for Importing and Exporting Fiber Optics and Fiber-Optic Cables

Exporting countries: China, the United States, Japan, and European countries such as Germany and France are recognized as the largest exporters of fiber optics to Iran. Owing to advanced technology and mass production, these countries hold a major share of the global fiber-optics market.
Importing countries: Iran, along with Middle Eastern countries, India, Russia, and some African nations, are primary importers of fiber optics and fiber-optic cables. Given the growing need to develop communications infrastructure, these countries prioritize importing this product.
Special import conditions: Importing fiber optics into Iran requires strict adherence to standards and obtaining necessary permits from relevant bodies such as the CRA. Additionally, due to sanctions or export restrictions, some countries may impose specific conditions for shipping these products to Iran.

6) Import and Export Volumes of Fiber Optics

Imports into Iran: In recent years, due to the rapid growth of communications technologies and rising demand for high-speed internet, imports of fiber optics into Iran have increased significantly.
Exports from Iran: Because the technology for producing fiber optics is largely imported and there is no large-scale domestic production, Iran is not a major exporter in this field. Nevertheless, some companies may produce and export limited fiber-related products.

7) Global Fiber-Optics Market and Outlook

The global fiber-optics market is expanding rapidly due to advances in communications technologies, increasing demand for greater bandwidth and high-speed internet, and the rollout of 5G networks. China, the United States, and Japan—major producers and exporters—lead this market. With the growing need for faster and more reliable connectivity, the global fiber-optics market is expected to continue its growth.

8) Documents Required to Clear Fiber Optics from Customs

To clear fiber optics from customs, a set of documents must be prepared completely and accurately. These are essential for verifying the goods, proper valuation, and compliance with national and international standards. 
1. Commercial Invoice
The commercial invoice documents all transaction details—including seller and buyer particulars, unit and total price, type and specs of the fiber optics, quantity, and payment terms. It must be prepared accurately to present correct information to customs.

2. Packing List
The packing list includes details of the goods’ packaging, such as number of packages, weight of each, dimensions, and contents. It helps customs officers verify and reconcile goods with the documents.

3. Certificate of Origin
This certificate indicates the country where the fiber optics were produced. It is crucial for determining customs tariffs and benefiting from trade agreements.

4. Certificate of Conformity
This certificate confirms that the imported fiber optics comply with the relevant national and international standards. It may be issued by recognized national or international bodies and submitted to customs.

5. Import License
For importing fiber optics, specific permits from government bodies—such as the Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA)—may be required. These ensure compliance with domestic regulations and the security of communications networks.

6. Customs Declaration Form
This form includes all information on imported goods, their value, and HS Code, and is submitted to initiate the clearance process.

7. Bill of Lading
Issued by the carrier, the bill of lading records shipment details, carriage conditions, and consignor/consignee information. It is necessary to verify the transport of goods from origin to destination.

8. Inspection Certificate
In some cases, goods may be assessed by accredited inspection companies prior to entry. This certificate confirms goods match the specifications stated in the documents.

9. Insurance Certificate
This certificate shows the goods were insured during transport and includes policy details and coverage.

10. Proof of Payment of Duties and Taxes
After customs evaluates the goods, duties and value-added tax (VAT) must be paid. Receipts serve as proof of financial settlement submitted to customs.
Product Short description HS Code
Fiber-optic cables Optical cable for telecom networks/data centers 85447010

Exact classification depends on cable structure, fiber type (SM/MM), connector, and application.

Need precise HS classification, CRA permits, and declaration preparation? Our team manages the case end to end.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the HS Code for fiber-optic cable?

Fiber-optic cables are usually declared under 85447010; final determination depends on cable structure and application.

What permits are required to import fiber optics?

As applicable: CRA permit/approval, compliance with ISO/IEC 11801, TIA-568, and ITU-T specifications; plus order registration in the Comprehensive Trade System.

What are the main documents for clearance?

Commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, certificate of conformity, import license, customs declaration, bill of lading, inspection certificate, and insurance.

Media Suggestions

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  • Caption: «Fiber-optics clearance steps; from HS and CRA permit to ISO/IEC and TIA standards»
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Conclusion and Call to Action

Clearing fiber optics and optical cables is complex due to technical sensitivities, standard requirements, and sectoral permits (CRA). With hands-on experience, Saba Tarkhis advances your process swiftly and in full compliance.

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Special Customs Clearance Services by Saba Brokerage

With years of experience in customs clearance and a specialized, seasoned team, we provide special services for clearing fiber optics and fiber-optic cables. These services include:

Specialized consulting: Providing precise, expert advice on selecting the best import and clearance methods for fiber optics, tailored to clients’ specific needs and current laws. This guidance helps you fully understand every stage of the clearance process and make the best import decisions.
Order registration and follow-ups: Handling all matters related to order registration and subsequent follow-ups via the Comprehensive Trade System, alongside detailed verification of compliance with required standards. This includes ensuring document accuracy and completeness, system registration, and continuous follow-up to expedite imports.
Full customs procedures: Carrying out all steps related to customs declarations, evaluation and inspection of goods, and payment of duties and taxes accurately and in the shortest possible time. This covers thorough goods assessment, preparing and submitting declarations, and coordinating with customs experts to facilitate and accelerate clearance.
Quality and standards assurance: In cooperation with accredited laboratories and relevant regulatory bodies, we ensure all imported fiber-optic products comply with international standards. This includes pre- and post-clearance quality inspections and obtaining necessary conformity certificates.
Expedited, cost-effective clearance: Leveraging the team’s knowledge and experience to speed up clearance and reduce related costs, with accurate, transparent reporting. This helps you clear goods as quickly and cost-effectively as possible.
Post-clearance services: Beyond clearance, we offer full support in post-clearance stages, including transport and delivery. This includes planning for fast, safe transportation and delivering goods to the final destination with the highest quality.

By choosing these services, you benefit from a fast, safe, and economical clearance process and can entrust all stages of clearing fiber optics and fiber-optic cables to a professional, specialized team with confidence.

Contact our experts for more information.

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