Comprehensive Guide to Shipping from China to Iran with DTFU

If you're looking to import Chinese goods into Iran, you've come to the right place. Whether you're a first-time importer or a seasoned professional, this detailed guide will provide valuable insights into the process. At DTFU, we specialize in planning sea, air, and land freight from China to Iran for all types of products and volumes. This guide will cover the customs clearance process in Iran, different freight options, and an overview of trade relations between the two countries. You'll also find personal advice and useful links throughout the article.

Customs Clearance in Iran

Can I Be Exempted from Duties and Taxes for an Import from China to Iran?

Due to the lack of a Free Trade Agreement between China and Iran, exemptions from duties and taxes are unlikely. Customs duties in Iran are approximately 28% of the goods' value, varying from 0% for essential products to over 100% for goods that Iran produces domestically. This policy supports local industries and businesses, encouraging them to thrive instead of relying heavily on imports.

Necessary Documents

Original Non-Preferential Certificate of Origin (CO): This document is essential for international trade and customs clearance, proving that your goods were produced in a specific country. It must be issued by a government or a notary public, signed by the local Chamber of Commerce and the Exporter.
Bill of Lading (BL) or Airway Bill: This document acts as an ID card for the cargo, confirming the reception and shipment of goods. The BL ensures the exporter receives payment and the importer receives the goods. For air freight, the Airway Bill serves the same purpose.
Original Invoice: Customs will use this to verify the goods match what the importer has declared.
General License: Granted by the Iranian Ministry of Commerce, it must be approved by the appropriate ministry for the type of goods being imported.
Commercial Card: Issued by the Iranian Chamber of Commerce, Industries, and Mines, and approved by the Ministry of Commerce.
Import License: Required for certain types of goods.

Depending on the goods you're importing, additional documents may be necessary. Check with Iranian customs for precise information.

Duties and Taxes in Iran

Iran uses the Harmonized System (HS) of tariff nomenclature to classify traded goods. This system uses a combination of six figures to identify products and determine applicable duties and taxes.

Value-Added Tax (VAT): Currently 17%, applied to the CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) value of imported goods.
Customs Duties: These vary based on the HS code of the product, ranging from 0% to 30% or more.

To determine the tariff for your goods, identify the correct HS code, which you can get from your Chinese supplier or use a website like FindHS.codes. Then, download the corresponding section from the IranPartner website to find the applicable tax rates.

Customs Process

Unloading and Custody: Goods are unloaded and placed in customs' custody.
Document Submission: Complete and submit all necessary documents as soon as possible to avoid extra charges like demurrage or warehousing.
Examination: Customs will examine the goods and calculate applicable duties and taxes.
Payment: Pay the calculated duties and taxes to receive the release letter for your goods.
Release: Once customs clearance is complete, goods are released and can be transported to their destination.

Using a proficient customs broker, like those at DTFU, can ensure a smooth and efficient process.

Trade Relations Between China and Iran

Two Similar Nations with Shared Ambitions

China and Iran share strong national identities rooted in their ancient civilizations. Both countries have robust political and economic relations, with China supplying Iran with electronics, auto parts, and heavy technologies, while Iran provides China with natural resources like coal, zinc, lead, and oil.

Most goods are shipped by sea freight, though rail freight (Eurasian land bridge) is also an option, albeit currently less efficient. In 2017, China was Iran's largest trading partner, with significant import and export activities. Despite sanctions and complex processes, the trade relationship continues to thrive, with transactions often conducted in Iranian Rial or Chinese Yuan, bypassing the need for US dollars.

Sea Freight from China to Iran

Major Ports of Iran

Port of Chabahar: Located on the Gulf of Oman, close to Pakistan, with an annual cargo tonnage of 2.1 million tonnes in 2015.
Port of Bandar Abbas: Serving the city of Bandar Abbas, it handled around 3 million TEUs in 2015 and is linked by train to Tehran.
Port of Kish Island: Known for its oil management platforms and companies like Total Co. and National Iranian Drilling Co.

Sea Freight Transit Times

Tianjin: 24-28 days
Dalian: 23-27 days
Shanghai/Ningbo: 22-26 days
Guangzhou/Shenzhen/Hong Kong: 20-24 days
Qingdao: 23-27 days

Sea Freight Rates

Sea freight is the preferred method for shipping goods between China and Iran due to its cost-effectiveness for large volumes. DTFU offers comprehensive services for all types of goods, including hazardous and perishable items. Each request is quoted individually to ensure precise and transparent pricing.

Air Freight from China to Iran

When to Choose Air Freight

Air freight is ideal for shipments under 2 CBM and 200 kg, or when time is a critical factor. With around 15 international airports in Iran and over 60 in China, air freight is a viable option for urgent deliveries.

Air Freight Transit Times

Direct Flight: Approximately 9 hours
Regular Air Freight: Around 7 days
Express Air Freight: Approximately 4 days

Air Freight Rates

Air freight is generally more expensive than sea freight, with costs calculated based on the higher value between gross and volumetric weight. DTFU offers competitive rates for both regular and express air freight services.

Inland Trucking in Iran

Post-air or sea freight, DTFU can deliver goods directly to your destination within Iran via rail or road. Our dense network ensures efficient and reliable transportation throughout the country.

Freight Insurance

To protect your goods against potential loss or damage, DTFU partners with leading insurers to offer comprehensive coverage. Depending on the class of goods, insurance costs range from 1-3% of the freight + goods (CIF) value.

Shipping goods from China to Iran involves navigating complex logistics, customs regulations, and selecting the right freight options. With DTFU, you can rely on our expertise and extensive network to manage every aspect of the shipping process efficiently. Whether you choose sea freight for cost-effectiveness or air freight for speed, we provide tailored solutions to meet your needs.

For more information or to get a free quote within 48 hours, contact DTFU today. Let us help you streamline your import process and achieve successful trade between China and Iran.