HS 251512 Merely cut, by sawing or otherwise, into blocks or slabs of a rectangular (including square) shape

Quick Answer: HS code 251512 covers marble and travertine that has been merely cut into rectangular (including square) blocks or slabs, typically by sawing. This classification applies to the raw, unpolished material, distinguishing it from more processed forms. Importers and exporters should note significant duty rate variations: the UK and EU generally apply a 0.00% ad valorem duty, while the US rates are highly variable, ranging from Free to 13% or even 50% ad valorem depending on the specific product and country of origin. This disparity necessitates careful verification of the exact US tariff line and any applicable trade agreements or special programs (e.g., GSP, MFN) to determine the correct duty. Accurate classification is crucial to avoid penalties and ensure compliance.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2515120000 0.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2515120000 0.00 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2515121000 Free — ["t"]
251512 — — —
2515122000 3% Free (17 programs) ["t"]

Special rates available under trade agreements including USMCA, KORUS, GSP.

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.

Which Trade Agreements Reduce Duties for HS 2515.12?

Imports of Merely cut, by sawing or otherwise, into blocks or slabs of a rectangular (including square) shape may qualify for reduced or zero duty rates under free trade agreements and preferential programs. The overview below shows available preferential arrangements by jurisdiction, compiled by HSRates from official tariff and trade agreement data.

United States (HTSUS)

Free for USMCA, KORUS, GSP, and 14 other programs

European Union (TARIC)

Preferential rate data not yet available.

United Kingdom

Preferential rate data not yet available.

Preferential rates require proof of origin and may be subject to quotas or conditions. Always verify eligibility with a licensed customs broker.

Data compiled by HSRates.

Which Preferential Rates Apply to Your Origin Country?

Select an origin country to see if preferential rates apply.

Preferential rates based on available trade agreements. Actual rates may vary.

How to Classify This HS Code?

What products does HS 251512 cover?

This subheading covers marble and travertine that has been merely cut, by sawing or otherwise, into blocks or slabs of a rectangular (including square) shape. This definition aligns with the Harmonized System Explanatory Notes (HSEN) for Heading 2515, which specifies the initial processing stage for these natural stones. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC system both reflect this scope, encompassing raw or roughly squared blocks and slabs intended for further processing, but not yet polished, chamfered, or otherwise finished beyond the basic cutting to shape. The key characteristic is the simple cutting to a rectangular or square form, distinguishing it from more processed or irregularly shaped stone.

What falls outside HS 251512?

The following products are excluded from HS 251512: marble and travertine that has been further worked beyond simple cutting into blocks or slabs. This includes stone that has been polished, ground, chamfered, carved, or otherwise processed to a finished or semi-finished state, which would typically fall under HS 6802. For example, polished marble tiles or countertops are classified under HS 6802, as they have undergone significant additional processing. Similarly, irregularly shaped pieces, rubble, or merely broken stone, even if of marble or travertine, would also be excluded, as they do not meet the "rectangular (including square) shape" criterion.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 251512?

A common error is misclassifying marble or travertine that has undergone minimal additional processing, such as a rough grinding or a single polished face, under HS 251512. Importers sometimes overlook the "merely cut" stipulation, leading to incorrect classification. According to General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1, the legal text of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes must be applied first. The HSEN for Heading 2515 explicitly states that products with further working, such as polishing or chamfering, are excluded. Another mistake is classifying irregularly shaped pieces of marble or travertine under this subheading, despite the clear requirement for a rectangular or square form.

How should importers classify products under HS 251512?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 251512 involves a careful examination of the stone's processing stage. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the marble or travertine is exclusively in the form of blocks or slabs that have been merely cut, by sawing or otherwise, into a rectangular or square shape. Any evidence of further working, such as polishing, grinding, chamfering, or other surface treatments beyond simple cutting, would necessitate classification under HS 6802. It is crucial to consult the WCO HS Explanatory Notes for Heading 2515, along with the specific national tariff schedules (e.g., USITC HTS or EU TARIC) to ensure accurate application of the "merely cut" criterion and avoid misclassification.

Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 251612 HS 251520 HS 251511 HS 251690 HS 251320 HS 291512

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

FAQ

What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 2515.12 (marble and travertine, merely cut, into blocks or slabs of a rectangular shape) in major markets?

The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates for HS 2515.12 can vary significantly by importing country. For example, under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS), the MFN (General) duty rate for 2515.12.00.00 is 0.00% ad valorem. Similarly, the EU TARIC database often shows a 0.00% ad valorem duty rate for this heading. However, other countries may apply different rates. For instance, some developing nations might impose higher tariffs, potentially up to 13% or even 50% ad valorem, to protect domestic industries or generate revenue. Importers should always verify the specific duty rate applicable to their destination country using official tariff databases like the USITC Tariff Database, EU TARIC, or the UK Global Online Tariff.

What are the key classification criteria for products under HS 2515.12, particularly distinguishing it from other marble and travertine headings?

HS 2515.12 specifically covers 'Marble and travertine: Merely cut, by sawing or otherwise, into blocks or slabs of a rectangular (including square) shape.' The critical criteria are: 1) The material must be marble or travertine. 2) The material must be 'merely cut' – this implies basic processing like sawing to achieve a block or slab form. It excludes further working such as polishing, chamfering, grinding, or other surface treatments beyond a rough cut. 3) The shape must be rectangular or square. If the marble or travertine is unworked (e.g., crude or roughly trimmed), it would fall under 2515.11. If it's further worked (e.g., polished, carved, or otherwise finished beyond mere cutting), it would typically fall under heading 6802. Importers must ensure the processing level strictly adheres to 'merely cut' to avoid misclassification.

Which common free trade agreements (FTAs) or preferential schemes offer duty reductions or exemptions for HS 2515.12, and what documentation is required?

Many free trade agreements and preferential trade schemes offer duty reductions or exemptions for HS 2515.12, often resulting in a 'Free' duty rate. For example, under agreements like the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), EU-Japan EPA, or various Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) schemes, eligible goods from partner countries can enter duty-free. To claim preferential duty rates, importers typically need to provide a Certificate of Origin (e.g., a USMCA Certificate of Origin, EUR.1 movement certificate, or a GSP Form A) demonstrating that the goods meet the specific rules of origin criteria of the respective agreement. Customs brokers must verify that the origin criteria are met and that the correct documentation is presented at the time of import to secure the preferential tariff treatment.

Are there any specific import documentation requirements or customs procedures unique to HS 2515.12 that importers should be aware of?

While HS 2515.12 generally falls under standard import procedures, importers should be mindful of a few points. Beyond the standard commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading/air waybill, if claiming preferential duty rates, a valid Certificate of Origin is crucial. Some countries may also require a phytosanitary certificate if the marble or travertine is imported with any attached soil or organic matter, though this is less common for 'merely cut' slabs. Furthermore, depending on the volume and value, some customs authorities might require pre-shipment inspection certificates. It's also advisable for importers to have clear photographic evidence of the 'merely cut' state of the material to substantiate the classification if challenged by customs, especially to differentiate it from more highly processed goods.