HS 262030 Containing mainly copper

Quick Answer: HS code 262030 covers ash and residues primarily composed of copper, originating from the smelting or refining of copper ores or scrap. This includes materials like copper slag, dross, and scale, which still contain recoverable amounts of copper. For the UK and EU, the general duty rate is 0.00% ad valorem, indicating free trade for these specific residues. In the US, however, duty rates are more complex, often assessed as specific duties based on the metal content, such as 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 should carefully analyze the precise metal composition to determine the correct US subheading and applicable duties, as well as any potential environmental regulations for handling and transport.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2620300000 0.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2620300000 0.00 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
26203000 Free — —
2620300020 — — ["Pb kg"]
2620300040 — — ["Ag g"]
2620300010 — — ["Cu kg"]
2620300030 — — ["Zn 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 Has Trade Volume Developed?

How to Classify This HS Code?

What products does HS 262030 cover?

This subheading covers ash and residues containing mainly copper, specifically those derived from the smelting, refining, or other processing of copper ores or scrap. These materials are typically by-products that still possess a significant copper content, making them valuable for further recovery of the metal. The WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 2620 clarify that these are residues from the metallurgical treatment of ores, concentrates, or scrap, not merely waste or scrap copper itself. Official definitions from the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule and the EU TARIC system align, specifying that the "mainly copper" criterion implies a predominant copper content by weight, distinguishing them from other metallic ash and residues.

What falls outside HS 262030?

The following products are excluded from HS 262030: copper waste and scrap (classified in Chapter 74, specifically heading 7404), which consists of articles rendered useless for their original purpose due to breakage, cutting, wear, or other reasons, and are fit only for recovery of metal. Also excluded are dross, scalings, and other waste from the manufacture of iron or steel (heading 2619), even if they contain trace amounts of copper. Furthermore, ash and residues containing precious metals, even if they also contain copper, are classified under heading 262099, as the presence of precious metals dictates their classification due to their higher value and specific recovery processes.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 262030?

A common error is misclassifying copper waste and scrap from Chapter 74 into this subheading, or vice-versa. Importers sometimes confuse "ash and residues" with actual "scrap," failing to recognize the distinction that ash and residues are typically by-products of metallurgical processes, often in powder or granular form, whereas scrap consists of identifiable, albeit damaged, metallic articles. Another mistake is overlooking the "mainly copper" criterion, attempting to classify residues with a lower copper content, or those where another metal predominates, into 262030. Proper application of General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1 and 6, along with careful consideration of the WCO Explanatory Notes, is crucial to avoid these errors.

How should importers classify products under HS 262030?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 262030 involves several steps for importers and customs brokers. First, accurately determine the chemical composition of the ash or residue, specifically the percentage by weight of copper and any other metals present, through laboratory analysis. This is critical to confirm that the material "contains mainly copper." Second, review the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 2620 to understand the scope and exclusions, ensuring the material is indeed an "ash or residue" from metallurgical processes and not merely waste or scrap. Third, consult official national tariff schedules (e.g., USITC HTS, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff) for any specific national notes or rulings that further define this subheading. Finally, maintain detailed records of the material's origin, composition analysis, and processing history to support the classification decision during customs clearance or potential audits.

Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 262040 HS 262011 HS 262021 HS 262060 HS 262029 HS 262099

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

FAQ

What is the import duty rate for HS code 262030 ('Containing mainly copper') in key markets, and are there preferential rates available?

The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates for HS code 262030 vary significantly by importing country. For instance, under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS), the general MFN duty rate for 2620.30.00.00 is a compound rate: 8.8¢/kg on copper content + 3.3¢/kg on lead content + 3.7¢/kg on zinc content (Source: USITC HTSUS). In contrast, the European Union's TARIC database often shows a 0.00% ad valorem MFN duty rate for this heading (Source: EU TARIC). The UK Global Tariff also typically lists a 0.00% ad valorem MFN duty rate. Importers should always verify the specific duty rate for their destination country. Preferential duty rates, often 'Free' or significantly reduced, may be available under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) such as NAFTA/USMCA, GSP (Generalized System of Preferences), or specific agreements between the EU/UK and exporting countries, provided the goods meet the relevant Rules of Origin criteria. Importers should consult the specific FTA text and their customs broker to determine eligibility.

What are the key classification criteria for products under HS 262030, specifically 'Containing mainly copper'?

HS code 262030 covers 'Slag, dross (other than granulated slag), scalings and other waste from the manufacture of iron or steel; ash and residues (other than from the manufacture of iron or steel), containing metals or metallic compounds. - Containing mainly copper.' The primary classification criterion is the metallic content: the waste, ash, or residue must contain copper as its predominant metal by weight. This means copper constitutes a greater proportion by weight than any other single metal present. It's crucial that these are residues and waste, not refined metals or primary products. Importers should be prepared to provide analytical reports or assays confirming the copper content and the overall metallic composition to customs authorities. The WCO Explanatory Notes for Chapter 26 provide further guidance on distinguishing between waste/residues and primary metallic products.

What documentation is typically required by customs authorities for imports classified under HS 262030?

Importers of goods under HS 262030 should prepare standard import documentation, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Due to the nature of this heading ('waste' and 'residues' containing metals), additional specific documentation is often required: 1. Certificate of Analysis/Assay Report: Essential to verify the metallic content, particularly the percentage of copper and other metals, to substantiate the 'containing mainly copper' claim. 2. Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS): May be required to identify any hazardous components, especially if the residues contain other regulated substances. 3. Waste Export/Import Permits: Depending on the origin and destination countries, and the specific composition of the waste, permits under international conventions like the Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and their Disposal may be necessary. 4. Declaration of Origin: Required to claim preferential duty rates under FTAs. Importers should consult their customs broker and the importing country's specific regulations for a comprehensive list of requirements.

How do common trade agreements, such as USMCA or EU FTAs, impact the import of goods under HS 262030?

Common trade agreements significantly impact the import of goods under HS 262030 by potentially offering preferential duty treatment, typically a 'Free' rate, provided the goods meet the agreement's Rules of Origin (ROO). For example, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), waste and scrap (including residues containing metals) originating in a USMCA country and meeting the ROO would be eligible for duty-free entry into the other USMCA countries. Similarly, Free Trade Agreements between the European Union and various partner countries (e.g., EU-Japan EPA, EU-South Korea FTA) or the UK's independent FTAs (e.g., UK-Canada TCA) would offer preferential rates for qualifying goods. The specific ROO for HS 262030 generally involves the goods being 'wholly obtained' or produced entirely within the territory of one or more of the parties. Importers must ensure they have a valid Certificate of Origin or equivalent declaration to substantiate the claim for preferential treatment, as customs authorities will scrutinize these claims.