HS 251320 Emery, natural corundum, natural garnet and other natural abrasives

Quick Answer: HS code 251320 encompasses natural abrasive materials such as emery, natural corundum, and natural garnet, used across various industries for grinding, polishing, and cutting applications. For importers and exporters, understanding the duty landscape is straightforward: the UK and EU apply a 0.00% ad valorem duty rate, as per the UK Trade Tariff and EU TARIC, respectively. In the United States, the duty rates are predominantly "Free," though specific subheadings can carry a rate of 2.2¢/kg, as detailed by the USITC. This generally favorable tariff treatment across major economies simplifies trade, with no significant non-tariff barriers typically associated with these raw materials. Importers should verify the specific classification of their product within the national tariff schedules to confirm the exact duty rate.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2513200000 0.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2513200000 0.00 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2513201000 Free — ["kg"]
251320 — — —
2513209000 Free — ["kg"]

Duty rates sourced from the USITC (US International Trade Commission) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) (accessed 2/22/2026), EU TARIC – DG TAXUD (Directorate-General for Taxation and Customs Union) (accessed 2/22/2026), and UK Trade Tariff – HMRC (His Majesty's Revenue and Customs) (accessed 2/22/2026).

Data compiled and presented by HSRates.

How to Classify This HS Code?

What products does HS 251320 cover?

This subheading covers natural abrasives specifically enumerated as emery, natural corundum, and natural garnet, as well as other natural abrasive materials not elsewhere specified within Heading 2513. These materials are typically used for grinding, polishing, or cutting due to their inherent hardness and abrasive properties. The WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 2513 clarify that these products are generally presented in their natural state, crushed, or powdered, but not further prepared beyond simple processing like washing or screening. For instance, the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) and the EU TARIC system both align with this definition, encompassing these raw or simply processed natural minerals primarily valued for their abrasive qualities.

What falls outside HS 251320?

The following products are excluded from HS 251320: artificial abrasives, which are classified under Heading 2818 (e.g., artificial corundum) or Heading 6805 (e.g., abrasive powder or grain on a base of textile material, paper, or paperboard). Furthermore, natural abrasive materials that have been agglomerated into grinding wheels or similar articles are excluded and typically fall under Heading 6804. For example, natural corundum that has been bonded with other materials to form a grinding wheel would be classified under 6804, not 251320. Similarly, pumice stone, another natural abrasive, is specifically classified under HS 251310, as it is separately enumerated within Heading 2513.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 251320?

A common error is misclassifying artificial abrasives as natural abrasives under HS 251320, or vice versa. Importers sometimes overlook the crucial distinction between naturally occurring minerals and synthetically produced counterparts, leading to incorrect tariff applications. For instance, synthetic corundum (aluminum oxide) is often confused with natural corundum, but it belongs to Chapter 28. Another mistake involves classifying natural abrasives that have undergone significant processing beyond simple crushing or washing, such as being incorporated into abrasive tools or articles, under this raw material subheading. Such articles are typically classified in Chapter 68, following General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 2(b) or 3(a) if they are composite goods or mixtures.

How should importers classify products under HS 251320?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 251320 involves first confirming the natural origin of the abrasive material. Importers and customs brokers should obtain documentation, such as material safety data sheets (MSDS) or certificates of analysis, that clearly identify the product as natural emery, natural corundum, natural garnet, or another natural abrasive. Next, verify that the material has not been processed beyond simple crushing, grinding, washing, or screening, as further manufacturing would likely lead to classification elsewhere. Consult the WCO Explanatory Notes for Heading 2513, along with the specific national tariff schedules like the USITC HTSUS or EU TARIC, to ensure alignment with the precise definitions and any relevant legal notes for Chapter 25. If in doubt, consider requesting a binding ruling from the relevant customs authority.

Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 251310 HS 251120 HS 251110 HS 251910 HS 253020 HS 250850

Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.

FAQ

What are the typical import duty rates for products classified under HS code 251320 in major markets?

The import duty rates for HS code 251320 ('Emery, natural corundum, natural garnet and other natural abrasives') vary significantly by importing country and any applicable trade agreements. For example, under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for 2513.20.00.00 is 'Free'. Similarly, the EU TARIC database generally shows a '0.00 %' ad valorem duty rate for this heading. The UK Global Tariff also lists '0.00 %' for goods under this code. However, some countries may apply specific duties; for instance, certain developing nations might have a duty rate of '2.2¢/kg' or a low ad valorem rate. Importers should always consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for the most accurate and up-to-date information, referencing official sources like the USITC HTSUS, EU TARIC, or the UK Trade Tariff.

What are the key classification criteria for natural abrasives under HS code 251320?

HS code 251320 specifically covers 'Emery, natural corundum, natural garnet and other natural abrasives'. The primary classification criterion is that the product must be a natural abrasive mineral. This excludes synthetic or artificial abrasives, which are typically classified elsewhere (e.g., Chapter 28 or 68). Key considerations for classification include: the mineralogical identity (e.g., emery, corundum, garnet), its natural origin, and its primary use as an abrasive. The WCO Explanatory Notes for Chapter 25 provide further guidance, emphasizing that these materials are typically used for grinding, polishing, or cutting due to their hardness. The form (e.g., crude, crushed, ground) generally does not affect classification within this heading, provided it remains a natural abrasive.

Are there any common trade agreements that offer preferential duty rates for HS 251320, and what documentation is required to claim them?

Yes, many trade agreements can offer preferential duty rates, often resulting in 'Free' or reduced duties for HS 251320, especially given that many MFN rates are already low or zero. For instance, goods originating from countries party to agreements like the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), various EU Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), or the UK's trade agreements may qualify for preferential treatment. To claim these rates, importers typically need to provide a Certificate of Origin or an origin declaration (e.g., a USMCA Certification of Origin, EUR.1 movement certificate, or a statement on origin for other FTAs). This documentation verifies that the goods meet the specific rules of origin criteria outlined in the respective trade agreement. Customs brokers and importers must ensure the origin documentation is accurate, complete, and available for presentation to customs authorities upon request.

What specific types of natural abrasives are included or excluded from HS 251320?

HS 251320 specifically includes 'Emery, natural corundum, natural garnet and other natural abrasives'. This covers naturally occurring minerals known for their hardness and abrasive properties. 'Emery' is a dark granular rock consisting of corundum, spinel, and other minerals. 'Natural corundum' refers to naturally occurring aluminum oxide, excluding gemstones like ruby and sapphire when presented as such. 'Natural garnet' encompasses various silicate minerals used as abrasives. Other natural abrasives might include certain types of quartz, pumice, or tripoli, provided their primary use is abrasive and they are natural. Excluded from this heading are: artificial or synthetic abrasives (e.g., artificial corundum, silicon carbide), abrasive powders or grains on a base of textile material, paper, paperboard, plastics or other materials (classified in Chapter 68), and abrasive preparations in paste, block, or similar forms (classified in Chapter 34).

Are there any specific import restrictions or special documentation beyond standard customs forms for natural abrasives under HS 251320?

Generally, natural abrasives under HS 251320 do not face extensive import restrictions beyond standard customs procedures. However, importers should be aware of potential requirements. For example, some countries may have specific regulations regarding dust control or hazardous material handling if the abrasive material poses a health risk during processing or use, although this is less common for the raw natural materials themselves. Environmental regulations, such as those concerning the import of certain minerals or materials from conflict-affected and high-risk areas, might also apply in some jurisdictions (e.g., due diligence requirements). While no specific permits are typically required solely due to their classification as natural abrasives, standard commercial documentation such as the commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading/air waybill, and any applicable certificate of origin are always necessary. Importers should always verify with the relevant national customs authority or a qualified customs broker for any country-specific import controls or non-tariff barriers.