HS 271320 Petroleum bitumen

Quick Answer: HS code 271320 specifically covers petroleum bitumen, a black, viscous, sticky, and highly viscous form of petroleum obtained as a residue from the distillation of crude oil. It is primarily used in road construction, roofing, and waterproofing applications due to its adhesive and water-resistant properties. For importers and exporters, this classification is straightforward. Across major jurisdictions, including the United Kingdom, the European Union, and the United States, petroleum bitumen under 271320 generally benefits from a 0.00% or "Free" ad valorem duty rate. This consistent zero-duty treatment simplifies trade compliance, as there are typically no customs duties to consider. However, parties should still ensure compliance with any applicable import/export licensing, environmental regulations, or other non-tariff measures specific to their destination market.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2713200000 0.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2713200000 0.00 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
2713200000 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 Has Trade Volume Developed?

How to Classify This HS Code?

What products does HS 271320 cover?

This subheading covers petroleum bitumen, which is a black or dark-brown, viscous liquid or semi-solid form of petroleum. It is obtained as a residue from the distillation of crude petroleum, or by the oxidation of petroleum residues. According to the Harmonized System Explanatory Notes (HSEN) for Heading 2713, petroleum bitumen is characterized by its high molecular weight hydrocarbons and its adhesive, waterproofing, and viscoelastic properties. It is primarily used in road construction, roofing, and as a binder in asphalt mixtures. Official definitions from the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and EU TARIC align with this scope, specifying the residual nature of the product from petroleum refining.

What falls outside HS 271320?

The following products are excluded from HS 271320: natural bitumen (asphaltites and asphalt rocks), which are classified under HS 2714. Mixtures of bitumen with other substances, such as cut-back bitumens or emulsified bitumens, are generally excluded if the added components significantly alter the essential character of the bitumen, often falling under HS 2715. For instance, asphalt mixtures for road surfacing, which contain aggregates and bitumen, are classified under HS 2715. Similarly, petroleum jelly (petrolatum) and paraffin wax, though derived from petroleum, possess different chemical compositions and physical properties, and are classified under HS 2712.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 271320?

A common error is misclassifying natural bitumen or asphaltites under HS 271320, when they properly belong to HS 2714. Another frequent mistake involves classifying bitumen emulsions or cut-back bitumens, which are mixtures designed for specific applications, directly under HS 271320. These modified products often fall under HS 2715 due to the application of General Interpretative Rule (GRI) 2(b) or 3(b), where the added components or the mixture itself imparts the essential character. Importers sometimes overlook the distinction between pure petroleum bitumen and its various formulated derivatives, leading to incorrect duty rates and potential compliance issues.

How should importers classify products under HS 271320?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 271320 involves first confirming that the product is indeed petroleum bitumen, a residue from petroleum distillation, and not a naturally occurring form or a modified mixture. Importers and customs brokers should review the product's technical specifications, including its origin (petroleum refining), chemical composition, and physical properties, to ensure it aligns with the WCO HS Explanatory Notes for Heading 2713. If the product is a mixture or emulsion, further analysis under GRI 2(b) or 3(b) is necessary to determine if it retains the essential character of bitumen or if it should be classified under HS 2715. Consulting official tariff schedules like the USITC HTS or EU TARIC and, if necessary, seeking a binding ruling from the relevant customs authority, provides the most robust classification.

Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 271390 HS 271311 HS 271410 HS 271210 HS 271020 HS 270900

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

FAQ

What are the standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) import duty rates for HS code 2713.20 (Petroleum bitumen) in major markets?

For HS code 2713.20, 'Petroleum bitumen', the MFN duty rates are generally quite low or free across major trading blocs. For instance, the United States (under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States, HTSUS) applies a 'Free' duty rate. Similarly, the European Union (EU TARIC) and the United Kingdom (UK Trade Tariff) also apply a 0.00% ad valorem duty rate. Importers should always verify the current rates via the official USITC HTSUS, EU TARIC, or UK Trade Tariff databases, as rates can be subject to change.

Are there any preferential duty rates available for petroleum bitumen (HS 2713.20) under common trade agreements?

Yes, petroleum bitumen (HS 2713.20) often benefits from preferential duty treatment under various free trade agreements (FTAs). Given that the MFN rates are already low or free in many regions, preferential rates typically confirm this 'Free' status. For example, under agreements like the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), goods originating in partner countries would typically enter the U.S. duty-free. Similarly, goods originating from countries with FTAs with the EU or UK would also generally benefit from 0.00% duty. Importers should consult the specific rules of origin for the relevant FTA and ensure proper documentation, such as a certificate of origin, is available to claim preferential treatment.

What are the key classification criteria for distinguishing petroleum bitumen under HS 2713.20 from other related products?

HS 2713.20 specifically covers 'Petroleum bitumen'. The primary classification criterion is that the product must be bitumen derived from petroleum, typically as a residue from the distillation of crude oil. It is characterized by its adhesive and waterproofing properties. It is crucial to distinguish it from natural bitumen (classified under HS 2714), other bituminous mixtures (e.g., HS 2715), or petroleum jelly and paraffin wax (HS 2712). The WCO Explanatory Notes for Chapter 27 provide detailed guidance, emphasizing the origin (petroleum) and the specific chemical and physical properties that define bitumen. Laboratory analysis may be required in ambiguous cases to confirm the product's composition and origin.

What documentation is typically required for the import of petroleum bitumen (HS 2713.20)?

For the import of petroleum bitumen under HS 2713.20, standard customs documentation is required. This typically includes a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or air waybill, and a customs declaration form. If claiming preferential duty rates under a free trade agreement, a certificate of origin (e.g., USMCA Certificate of Origin, EUR.1 movement certificate) is essential. Depending on the country of import and specific end-use, additional permits or declarations related to environmental regulations, hazardous materials, or chemical control (e.g., REACH in the EU, TSCA in the US) might be necessary. Importers should confirm specific national requirements with their customs broker or the relevant customs authority.