HS 262029 Other
Quick Answer: HS code 2620.29, "Other," covers a diverse range of ash and residues containing primarily lead, zinc, or copper, but not precious metals. This includes various industrial by-products and scrap materials from metallurgical processes. For example, it can encompass zinc dross, lead slags, and copper scale, provided their metal content is not high enough to classify them as metal waste and scrap under Chapter 74, 78, or 79. Duty rates vary significantly. The UK and EU generally apply a 0.00% ad valorem duty. In contrast, the US imposes specific duties based on the metal content: 8.8¢/kg on copper content, 3.3¢/kg on lead content, and 3.7¢/kg on zinc content, though some specific subheadings may be Free. Importers and customs brokers must accurately determine the metal content for US entries to ensure correct duty assessment. Due to the varied nature of these residues, precise chemical analysis is often critical for accurate classification and duty calculation, especially for US imports.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2620290000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2620290000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2620290010 | — | — | ["Cu kg"] |
| 2620290030 | — | — | ["Zn kg"] |
| 26202900 | Free | — | — |
| 2620290020 | — | — | ["Pb kg"] |
| 2620290040 | — | — | ["Ag g"] |
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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 262029 cover?
This subheading covers ash and residues containing mainly zinc, specifically those not elsewhere specified or included within other subheadings of Heading 2620. According to the Harmonized System Nomenclature, as interpreted by the World Customs Organization (WCO), and reflected in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) and the EU TARIC, this includes various forms of zinc-containing waste and scrap that are not primarily lead, copper, or precious metal ash. These residues often arise from metallurgical processes, galvanizing operations, or other industrial activities where zinc is a primary component, but the material is not in a form suitable for direct use as zinc metal or alloy.
What falls outside HS 262029?
The following products are excluded from HS 262029: ash and residues containing primarily lead (e.g., lead dross, lead-acid battery waste), which are classified under HS 262030; ash and residues containing primarily copper, classified under HS 262019; and ash and residues containing precious metal or precious metal compounds, which are classified under HS 262091. Furthermore, zinc dross, which is a specific type of residue from hot-dip galvanizing, is explicitly classified under HS 262021. Zinc waste and scrap in metallic form, suitable for direct remelting, are classified under Chapter 79, specifically HS 790200, rather than as ash or residues of Chapter 26.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 262029?
A common error is misclassifying zinc dross under HS 262029 instead of its specific subheading, HS 262021. Importers sometimes overlook the explicit provision for zinc dross, leading to incorrect declarations. Another frequent mistake involves failing to accurately determine the primary metal content, particularly when residues contain a mix of metals. If lead or copper predominates, even if zinc is present, the product should be classified under the respective lead or copper subheadings, in accordance with General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 3(b) which prioritizes the material giving the goods their essential character. Incorrectly identifying the "main" constituent can lead to significant compliance issues.
How should importers classify products under HS 262029?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 262029 involves a thorough analysis of the material's composition and form. Importers and customs brokers should first obtain detailed chemical assays or laboratory reports to ascertain the predominant metal content. If zinc is the primary constituent and the material is in the form of ash or residue (not metallic waste/scrap), then further differentiation is required. Confirm that the material is not zinc dross (HS 262021) and does not contain precious metals (HS 262091). If it is a residual product primarily of zinc, not specifically provided for elsewhere in Heading 2620, then HS 262029 is appropriate. Always consult the latest WCO Explanatory Notes, USITC HTSUS, or EU TARIC for definitive guidance and binding rulings if uncertainty persists.
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FAQ
What is the import duty rate for HS code 2620.29 in the United States, European Union, and United Kingdom?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates for HS code 2620.29 ('Ashes and residues (other than from the manufacture of iron or steel), containing metals or metal compounds: Of lead: Other') vary by jurisdiction. For imports into the United States, the general MFN duty rate is a compound rate: 8.8¢/kg on copper content + 3.3¢/kg on lead content + 3.7¢/kg on zinc content, as per the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS). In the European Union (EU), the Common Customs Tariff (TARIC) generally applies a duty rate of 0.00% ad valorem for this subheading. Similarly, the UK Global Tariff (UKGT) also lists a duty rate of 0.00% ad valorem for imports into the United Kingdom. Importers should always verify the current rates with the respective customs authorities or official tariff databases (e.g., USITC HTS, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff).
What specific criteria determine classification under HS 2620.29, especially differentiating it from other subheadings within 2620?
HS code 2620.29 specifically covers 'Ashes and residues (other than from the manufacture of iron or steel), containing metals or metal compounds: Of lead: Other'. The key classification criteria are: 1) The material must be ashes or residues, not primary ores or refined metals. 2) It must contain metals or metal compounds. 3) It must not originate from the manufacture of iron or steel (which falls under 2619). 4) Crucially, it must be 'Of lead', meaning lead or lead compounds are the predominant or characteristic metal content, and it must not be specifically provided for in other more specific subheadings under 2620.20 (e.g., dross, scales, and other waste from the manufacture of copper, or containing principally zinc). The 'Other' designation implies it covers lead-containing ashes and residues not elsewhere specified within the lead subheadings. Importers should ensure laboratory analysis confirms the primary metal content to avoid misclassification.
Are there any preferential duty rates or free trade agreements (FTAs) that commonly apply to HS 2620.29, potentially reducing or eliminating duties?
Yes, preferential duty rates can apply to HS 2620.29 depending on the country of origin and the importing jurisdiction's trade agreements. For instance, in the United States, goods originating from countries with which the U.S. has Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) like NAFTA/USMCA (Canada, Mexico), CAFTA-DR, or agreements with Australia, Korea, etc., may qualify for duty-free treatment (e.g., 'Free' rate). Similarly, the EU and UK have extensive networks of FTAs (e.g., with Canada, Japan, South Korea, various developing countries under GSP schemes) that could grant preferential 0.00% duty rates. To claim preferential treatment, importers must ensure the goods meet the specific Rules of Origin criteria of the applicable trade agreement and possess the necessary documentation, such as a certificate of origin or origin declaration. It is essential to consult the specific FTA text and the importing country's tariff schedule for eligibility and documentation requirements.
What documentation is typically required by customs authorities for the import of goods classified under HS 2620.29?
For goods classified under HS 2620.29, standard import documentation is required, including a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, and a customs declaration form. Given that this HS code covers ashes and residues containing metals, customs authorities may also require additional specific documentation. This could include: 1) A detailed chemical analysis or assay report specifying the exact metal content (e.g., lead, copper, zinc percentages) to support classification and duty calculation (especially for compound rates like in the U.S.). 2) Environmental permits or waste management licenses, as these materials might be considered hazardous waste or require specific handling due to their metal content. 3) For preferential duty claims, a valid Certificate of Origin or Origin Declaration is mandatory. Importers should consult with their customs broker and the relevant national customs authority (e.g., CBP in the U.S., HMRC in the UK, national customs in the EU) for any specific import restrictions, licensing, or documentation requirements related to waste materials or materials containing heavy metals.