What Major Non-DG Chemicals Does Iran Import from China?

Iran, as a major industrial and agricultural country in the Middle East, imports a large volume of non‑dangerous, low‑toxicity ordinary chemicals from China, mainly used in coatings, plastics, textiles, water treatment, food additives, and building materials. The most imported categories include:

Coatings & Resin Raw Materials

  • Titanium dioxide (TiO₂) – for paints and plastics
  • Acrylic emulsion – water‑based coatings
  • Epoxy resin (non‑hazardous grades)
  • Polyester resin

Water Treatment & Auxiliaries

  • Polyacrylamide (PAM) – flocculant
  • Polyaluminium chloride (PAC)
  • Defoamers, dispersants
  • EDTA chelating agents

Plastics & Rubber Additives

  • Plasticizers (DOP, DOTP)
  • Stabilizers (calcium‑zinc, organotin)
  • Antioxidants, UV absorbers
  • Carbon black (non‑hazardous)

Agricultural & Food‑Grade

  • Phosphates (food/industrial grade)
  • Citric acid, sodium gluconate
  • Zinc sulfate, manganese sulfate (trace elements)
  • Preservatives (sodium benzoate, etc.)
Note: The above categories are generally classified as non‑dangerous goods or general cargo under the IMDG Code, but you still need to provide MSDS and a transport condition identification certificate to ensure compliance.

How to Send Chemical Samples to Iran?

For small sample shipments (typically < 5 kg), we recommend using international express couriers (DHL, FedEx, UPS, etc.) and follow these steps:

  • ① Confirm non‑hazardous status: Provide MSDS and a transport condition identification certificate (issued by a CNAS‑accredited lab) to prove it is non‑dangerous.
  • ② Proper declaration: Clearly state “Chemical Sample (Non‑Dangerous)” on the waybill, and list the chemical composition and use to avoid customs detention in Iran.
  • ③ Packaging requirements: Use leak‑proof, shock‑resistant inner and outer packaging; double‑seal and attach “Non‑Dangerous” labels.
  • ④ Iranian import permit: Some samples require an import permit from the Iran Standards Organization (ISIRI) – confirm with the consignee in advance (usually handled by the receiver).
  • ⑤ Duties & clearance: Samples valued above USD 100 may incur duties; declare a reasonable value and attach a pro‑forma invoice.
Expert tip: Iranian customs are strict with chemicals – communicate with a local Iranian customs broker or consignee before shipping to ensure they have the necessary import qualifications.

How to Ship Non-DG Chemicals by Air from China to Iran?

Air freight is suitable for urgent, small‑batch, high‑value chemical goods. Main departure airports include Shanghai Pudong (PVG), Beijing Capital (PEK), Guangzhou (CAN), and Shenzhen (SZX), with flights to Tehran Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA).

Air Process

  1. Provide MSDS and identification certificate to confirm non‑dangerous.
  2. Engage a forwarder to book space – choose direct or connecting flights.
  3. Prepare shipping documents: commercial invoice, packing list, air waybill (AWB).
  4. Complete export customs declaration in China (if required).
  5. After arrival at IKA, the Iranian party handles customs clearance and pickup.

Transit Time & Costs

  • Direct flights: about 3‑5 days (including clearance)
  • Connecting flights: about 5‑8 days
  • Freight rate: approx. USD 5‑12/kg (subject to season and fuel surcharges)
  • Book at least 5‑7 days in advance
Note: Air freight packaging must comply with IATA regulations, with proper labels on each piece. Powders may face extra security checks – confirm with your forwarder.

Non-DG Chemicals by LCL (Less than Container Load) to Iran

LCL is suitable for small quantities that do not fill a full container. Main Chinese ports (Shanghai, Ningbo, Guangzhou, Shenzhen) sail to Bandar Abbas or Bandar Imam Khomeini in Iran.

  • Process: Request quote → book space → deliver to warehouse → consolidation → export customs → sea transit (about 18‑25 days) → Iran port clearance → de‑consolidation & pickup.
  • Documents required: Bill of Lading (BL), packing list, invoice, MSDS, non‑dangerous certificate, Certificate of Origin (CO), etc.
  • Cost components: Ocean freight + port charges + destination charges (THC, DOC, clearance fees).
  • Note: LCL cargo is mixed with other goods – ensure robust packaging to avoid breakage or contamination; cargo insurance is recommended.

Typical LCL Route

Shanghai → Bandar Abbas direct about 22 days, transshipment about 25‑28 days. Major carriers: MSC, MAERSK, COSCO, HMM.

Non-DG Chemicals by FCL (Full Container Load) to Iran

FCL is suitable for large volumes of a single product, available in 20GP / 40GP / 40HQ containers, with door‑to‑door or port‑to‑port services.

FCL Key Steps

  • Booking → pick‑up container → factory stuffing → export declaration → sea transit → destination clearance → container pick‑up / delivery.
  • Ensure container is clean, dry, and odour‑free (especially for food‑grade chemicals).
  • Use pallets + stretch wrap to secure cargo and minimise damage.
  • FCL is more cost‑effective per container than LCL.

Cost Reference (2026)

  • 20GP ocean freight: approx. USD 1,200 – 2,000
  • 40HQ ocean freight: approx. USD 1,800 – 3,200
  • Destination clearance + trucking extra
  • Book 2‑3 weeks in advance; earlier in peak season
Iran import note: Due to international sanctions, payments and shipping must go through compliant channels. Choose recognised Iran‑bound carriers and secure payment methods (e.g., Kunlun Bank or compliant third‑party settlement).

What Documents and Qualifications Are Needed?

The following documents are essential or commonly required for both air and sea shipments – prepare them in advance:

Document Purpose / Description Issued by
MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet)Identifies composition, hazard classification, and emergency measuresManufacturer / supplier
Transport Condition Identification CertificateOfficial or third‑party test report confirming non‑dangerous statusCNAS‑accredited lab
Certificate of Origin (CO)Proves Chinese origin for potential tariff preferences under China‑Iran agreementsCCPIT / Chinese Customs
Commercial Invoice & Packing ListBasis for customs clearance, value and quantity declarationExporter
Bill of Lading / Air WaybillTitle to goods and transport contractCarrier
Import License (if required)Some chemicals need ISIRI or Ministry of Health approvalIranian importer

Additionally, prepare a product specification sheet (in English/Persian) and packaging photos for easier Iranian customs inspection.

How to Comply When Transporting Non-DG Chemicals from China?

Compliance is the lifeline of international chemical trade. Follow these core principles:

  • ✅ Accurate classification: Use GHS, IMDG, and IATA rules to correctly determine if the product is dangerous. Non‑DG does not mean zero risk – declare truthfully.
  • ✅ Complete and truthful documents: MSDS, certificates, and invoices must match the actual cargo – no concealment or misdeclaration.
  • ✅ Compliant packaging: Use UN‑standard or industry‑approved packaging, especially for powders/liquids to prevent leakage.
  • ✅ Export permits: Check if the product is subject to dual‑use or controlled chemical restrictions; apply for export licences if needed.
  • ✅ Iran import compliance: Ensure the consignee has import qualifications, and obtain required Iranian documents (CO, health certificates, etc.).
  • ✅ Choose a professional forwarder: Experienced forwarders help mitigate risks, handle inspections, and manage complex customs clearance.
Compliance commitment: We adhere to “safety first, compliance first” – ensuring every shipment meets both Chinese and Iranian legal requirements.

FAQ

Do I need to pay import duties on Non‑DG chemicals in Iran?
Yes, Iran applies tariffs on chemicals, typically 5% – 25% depending on the HS code. Some raw materials may enjoy preferential rates – check the Iranian customs tariff or consult a local agent.
Is cargo insurance necessary for chemical shipments?
Strongly recommended – purchase All Risks or With Average cover. Chemicals are vulnerable to moisture, breakage, and contamination; insurance protects against loss and third‑party liability.
Do Iran sanctions affect chemical transportation?
Iran remains under some international sanctions, but non‑sensitive, civil‑use chemicals can be traded through compliant channels. Use reputable forwarders and legal payment routes; avoid sanctioned banks or carriers.
What if my cargo is inspected during transit?
Inspection is a normal procedure. If documents are complete and cargo matches declarations, clearance usually takes 1‑3 working days. Our team assists throughout the inspection process.
How is sample shipping different from formal cargo?
Samples are usually sent by express courier with simpler procedures, but note Iran’s value limit (typically duty‑free below USD 100). Formal cargo requires full trade documentation and customs declaration, with longer lead times.

Success Stories

Case 1: FCL Titanium Dioxide to Tehran

Cargo: Titanium dioxide (TiO₂) 20t / 20GP
Route: Shanghai → Bandar Abbas → Tehran (truck)
Result: 26 days total, smooth customs, customer re‑ordered 3 containers.
FCL Non-DG

Case 2: Urgent LCL Water Treatment Chemical

Cargo: Polyacrylamide (PAM) 5t / LCL
Route: Ningbo → Bandar Abbas
Result: Arrived in 20 days, customer started production on time and signed a long‑term contract.
LCL Urgent

Case 3: Air Sample – Citric Acid

Cargo: Citric acid 2kg sample
Route: Guangzhou → Tehran (DHL)
Result: Delivered in 5 days, customer approved quality and later placed orders for 2 FCLs.
Sample Air

Case 4: Compliant Export of Plastic Additives

Cargo: Plasticizer DOTP 40t / 40HQ
Route: Shenzhen → Bandar Imam Khomeini
Result: Declared compliantly, obtained tariff preference, high customer satisfaction.
FCL Compliant

Why Choose Us?

We specialise in China–Iran chemical logistics for over 10 years, providing one‑stop, compliant, and efficient transport services.

Professional Compliance

Expert in China‑Iran regulations – ensure every shipment clears customs

Stable Space

Contracts with major carriers – secure space even in peak seasons

Document Guidance

Free assistance with MSDS, certificates, CO, and all paperwork

End‑to‑End Tracking

Dedicated account manager – real‑time updates from stuffing to delivery

Risk Mitigation

Identify risks early, offer insurance and packaging optimisation

Cost Optimisation

Combine LCL, FCL, and air to lower your total logistics spend

Shipping From China to the Afghanistan

2026 China‑Iran Chemical Logistics Guide · For reference only info@chemilogistics.com  |  www.chemilogistics.ir