HS 270111 Coal, whether or not pulverised, but not agglomerated
Quick Answer: HS code 270111 covers non-agglomerated coal, including anthracite, bituminous, and sub-bituminous coal, whether in lump form or pulverized. This classification specifically excludes briquettes or other manufactured fuel forms. For importers and exporters, the primary consideration for this commodity is the generally low or zero duty rates across major jurisdictions. The UK Trade Tariff, EU TARIC, and the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) all indicate a 0.00% or "Free" ad valorem duty rate for products falling under 270111. While duty rates are minimal, trade compliance professionals should remain aware of potential environmental regulations, import licensing requirements, or specific quality standards that may apply in destination countries, as these can significantly impact logistics and cost beyond tariffs.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2701110000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2701110000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2701110000 | Free | — | ["t"] |
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 270111 cover?
This subheading covers anthracite coal, specifically coal with a volatile matter content (on a dry, mineral-matter-free basis) not exceeding 10%. This definition aligns with the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Heading 2701, which delineate the various types of coal. It includes anthracite whether it is in its natural lump form, crushed, or pulverised, provided it has not undergone any agglomeration process such as briquetting or pelletizing. Official customs tariffs, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC, consistently apply this specific volatile matter threshold for classifying anthracite under this code, distinguishing it from other coal types based on its high carbon content and low volatile matter.
What falls outside HS 270111?
The following products are excluded from HS 270111: other types of coal, such as bituminous coal (often classified under HS 270112) or lignite (HS 270119), which have higher volatile matter content. Furthermore, any coal that has been agglomerated, for instance, into briquettes, ovoids, or similar manufactured fuels, is excluded and would typically fall under HS 270120, regardless of the original coal type. Peat, even if compressed, is also excluded and classified under HS 270300. These distinctions are crucial for accurate classification, as the physical form and specific chemical characteristics, particularly volatile matter, dictate the correct subheading within Chapter 27.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 270111?
A common error is misclassifying coal based solely on its appearance or common name rather than its precise chemical composition, specifically the volatile matter content. Importers sometimes incorrectly classify bituminous coal as anthracite if it appears dark and dense, failing to perform or obtain the necessary laboratory analysis to confirm the volatile matter percentage. Another frequent mistake involves classifying pulverised anthracite that has been subsequently pressed into briquettes or pellets under HS 270111, when it should correctly be classified under HS 270120 due to the agglomeration process. Adherence to General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 1, which states that classification is determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes, is paramount here.
How should importers classify products under HS 270111?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 270111 involves several critical steps. Importers and customs brokers must first obtain a certificate of analysis for the coal, clearly stating the volatile matter content on a dry, mineral-matter-free basis. This documentation is essential to confirm that the coal meets the "not exceeding 10%" threshold for anthracite. Secondly, verify that the coal has not undergone any agglomeration process; if it has been formed into briquettes, ovoids, or similar shapes, it must be classified under HS 270120. Finally, consult the latest version of the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (or relevant national tariff) and the WCO Explanatory Notes to ensure full compliance with all specific legal notes and rulings pertaining to Chapter 27 and Heading 2701.
Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 2701.11 (Anthracite, not agglomerated) in major markets?
For HS code 2701.11, anthracite coal, whether or not pulverised but not agglomerated, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rates are generally 0.00% ad valorem in many major trading blocs. For instance, the United States (under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States, HTSUS), the European Union (under TARIC), and the United Kingdom (under the UK Global Tariff) all apply a 0.00% MFN duty rate. This means that imports from most countries will enter duty-free, assuming all other customs requirements are met. Importers should always verify the current rates through official sources like the USITC HTSUS, EU TARIC, or the UK Trade Tariff.
What are the key classification criteria for HS 2701.11, and how does it differ from other coal classifications?
HS 2701.11 specifically covers 'Anthracite, whether or not pulverised, but not agglomerated.' The primary classification criterion is the type of coal: anthracite. Anthracite is a hard, compact variety of coal that has a submetallic luster. It has the highest carbon content, the fewest impurities, and the highest energy density of all types of coal, and is the highest ranking of coals. The 'not agglomerated' part is crucial; it means the coal has not been processed into briquettes, ovoids, or similar forms using a binder. This distinguishes it from HS 2701.20 (Briquettes, ovoids and similar solid fuels manufactured from coal), which covers agglomerated coal products. It also differentiates it from other types of coal under HS 2701, such as bituminous coal (HS 2701.12) or other coals (HS 2701.19), based on their geological characteristics and carbon content as defined by WCO Explanatory Notes.
Are there any specific documentation requirements or permits needed for importing coal under HS 2701.11?
While the import duty rate for HS 2701.11 is often 0.00%, importers may still face specific documentation and regulatory requirements, particularly concerning environmental and safety standards. Typical documentation includes a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, and a certificate of origin if claiming preferential treatment (though not relevant for 0.00% MFN rates). Depending on the importing country, additional permits or declarations related to environmental protection, such as those concerning air quality or hazardous materials, may be required by agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the US, or equivalent bodies in the EU or UK. Importers should consult the specific regulations of the importing country and any relevant national or regional environmental agencies.
How do free trade agreements (FTAs) or preferential trade programs impact the import of HS 2701.11?
Given that the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS 2701.11 is typically 0.00% ad valorem in many major economies (e.g., US, EU, UK), the direct impact of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) or preferential trade programs on the duty rate itself is often minimal or non-existent. Since the MFN rate is already duty-free, there is no further duty reduction available under an FTA. However, FTAs can still be relevant by simplifying customs procedures, reducing administrative burdens, or providing rules of origin that might be important for other related trade statistics or regulatory compliance, even if not for duty reduction. Importers should still ensure compliance with any rules of origin requirements if claiming benefits under an FTA for other goods, or if the coal is part of a larger consignment that includes dutiable items.