Many traders think that export is only “moving the goods through the border”; but some goods are not allowed to leave without an export license and neglecting it means a stoppage, a fine and even a returned shipment. In this article you will learn which goods are subject to an export license, where to get the license and how to coordinate it with the business card.
Which goods are subject to an export license?
Determining the need for a license is done with the tariff code of the goods. In general these groups are usually subject to one:
- Strategic goods and goods subject to an export restriction: such as some raw materials and petrochemical products
- Agricultural and livestock goods: need a quarantine and veterinary certificate
- Food: a health certificate from the Ministry of Health
- Goods subject to mandatory standards: the permit of the National Standards Organization
- Antiques and cultural goods: a special permit from the relevant bodies
Note: the starting point is the HS tariff code. From the code you can find out which license your goods are subject to, and this list differs from the import licenses.
The difference between an export and an import license
| Subject | Export license | Import license |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | controlling the exit of strategic goods and preserving the health of exports | controlling entry, health and supporting domestic production |
| Main body | the Ministry of Industry, Mine and Trade, specialized organizations | the Standards Organization, the Ministry of Health, customs |
| Main risk | the ban on exit or a stoppage at the border | the return of the goods and a fine |
| Common accompanying certificate | certificate of origin, quarantine | standard, health certificate |
The steps to obtain an export license
1. Determining the tariff code and checking the license status
First determine the exact tariff code of the goods and check its license status in the official systems. If you are in doubt between the codes, a customs expert can do this work.
2. Preparing the documents
The basic documents include the business card, the proforma, the packing list and the invoice. See the complete checklist in the documents needed for export from the Urmia border.
3. Obtaining the specialized certificates
Depending on the goods, obtain the plant/animal quarantine certificate, the health certificate or the permit of the National Standards Organization from the relevant body.
4. Registering the exit declaration
With the documents completed, the exit declaration is registered in the customs system and the goods become ready to leave the border. Follow the exact filling process in the declaration guide.
Practical notes for a successful export
- Take the licensing schedule seriously: obtaining the license takes time; if you obtain the license after the shipment has moved, the cargo stays at the border and warehousing costs are imposed on you.
- Do not forget the certificate of origin: to use preferential regulations and gain the buyer’s trust, the certificate of origin is one of the key documents.
- Choose the export route intelligently: the clearance time is different at the Urmia and Bazargan customs.
- Work with a logistics partner: a reliable freight forwarder determines the license list and its schedule for you before the shipment moves.
FAQ
How do I know my goods are subject to an export license?
By checking the tariff code of the goods in the official systems of customs and the Ministry of Industry, Mine and Trade. A customs expert can do this check.
Is the certificate of origin the same as the export license?
No. The certificate of origin is the document confirming the place of production of the goods and is usually used for customs purposes and preferential regulations; the export license means the permission to export the goods subject to it.
If a license is not needed, is the declaration still registered?
Yes, the exit declaration is registered for all exports; only for the subject goods is the license attached.
When should I act to obtain the license?
As soon as the tariff code is determined and before the contract is finalized. Agricultural and livestock licenses may take weeks.
Summary
The export license is one of the most key documents for the unstoppable exit of the goods from the border. By determining the tariff code, checking the license status and timing its acquisition correctly, you both prevent a stoppage and a fine and build a healthy trade file. The Vira Farabar Logistics team checks the license list of your export goods before departure and coordinates the acquisition process.
