HS 360310 Safety fuses
Quick Answer: Safety fuses imported under HS 360310 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 6.00% ad valorem, and the US at 3.00% ad valorem, with preferential rates available from certain trade partners. This HS code covers detonating fuses and safety fuses designed to initiate explosive charges, excluding electric detonators. Importers should be aware of potential licensing or permit requirements depending on the specific type of fuse and the destination country's regulations. CustomTariffs aggregates this tariff data, highlighting the varied duty structures across major markets.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3603100000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3603100000 | 6.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3603100000 | 3% | Free (17 programs) | ["thousand m"] |
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 3603.10?
Imports of Safety fuses 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, and 15 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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 360310 cover?
This subheading covers safety fuses, which are essential components for igniting pyrotechnic articles and explosives. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category includes detonating fuses and igniting fuses designed for controlled initiation. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that these are typically flexible tubes or cords containing a combustible material, designed to transmit a flame or detonation over a specific distance and time, ensuring safe operation during blasting or fireworks display.
What falls outside HS 360310?
The following products are excluded from HS 360310: general igniters or fuses not specifically designed for safety applications, such as those for igniting cigarettes or simple candles, which may fall under other headings like 3824. Also excluded are blasting caps or detonators themselves, which are classified under HS 360300. Additionally, electrical igniters or fuses used in electrical circuits, even if they initiate a pyrotechnic effect, are typically classified elsewhere, often under Chapter 85, based on their primary electrical function.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 360310?
A common error is misclassifying electrical detonators or igniters as safety fuses. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b), when goods are classifiable under two or more headings, they should be classified as if they consisted of the material or component which gives them their essential character. Electrical components often impart an essential character that places them in Chapter 85, not Chapter 36, unless the primary function is clearly a safety fuse for explosives.
How should importers classify products under HS 360310?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 360310 involves a thorough examination of the product's intended use and composition. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff. Key considerations include whether the product is a fuse designed for the safe initiation of explosives or pyrotechnics, and its physical characteristics, such as being a cord or tube containing combustible material.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 360310?
A shipment of 1,000 meters of safety fuse, declared at a customs value of $500 USD, would attract a US duty of $15.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value. The calculation is: 3.0% × $500 USD = $15.00. This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, specifically under HTS subheading 3603.10.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 360310?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 360310, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), where originating goods from Canada and Mexico can enter duty-free. For goods originating from countries benefiting from the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), the duty rate can be reduced to Free. Documentation required to claim these preferences typically includes a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries, depending on the specific jurisdiction and agreement.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 360310 (Safety fuses)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for safety fuses (HS 360310) is typically 3.5% ad valorem. However, preferential duty rates can be significantly lower or free for imports from countries with trade agreements with the United States. For example, imports from Australia (AU), Chile (CL), or South Korea (KR) may be eligible for free entry (0.00%). It is crucial to consult the latest USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for the specific rate applicable to your country of origin. For instance, if the MFN rate is 3.5% and the value of the imported safety fuses is $10,000, the duty would be $10,000 \times 0.035 = $350.
What specific criteria define a product as a 'safety fuse' under HS code 360310?
HS code 360310 covers safety fuses, which are designed to ignite explosive charges in a controlled manner and at a safe distance. This typically includes detonating fuses, safety igniter cords, and similar devices. The key characteristic is their function in initiating an explosion safely. Products that are solely for igniting flammable materials for non-explosive purposes, or that are purely pyrotechnic devices for entertainment, would likely be classified elsewhere. Always refer to the Explanatory Notes of the Harmonized System for detailed classification guidance.
What documentation is typically required for importing safety fuses (HS 360310)?
In addition to standard import documentation such as a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading, the importation of safety fuses (HS 360310) may require specific permits or licenses due to their classification as explosives or related articles. Importers should verify requirements with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) in the United States, or the relevant national regulatory body in other jurisdictions. Compliance with transportation regulations for hazardous materials (e.g., DOT, IATA) is also essential.
How do trade agreements affect the duty rates for safety fuses (HS 360310)?
Trade agreements can significantly reduce or eliminate duties on safety fuses (HS 360310). For example, the United States has Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries like Chile (CL), South Korea (KR), and Australia (AU). Under these agreements, qualifying goods of origin from these countries can be imported duty-free (0.00%). To benefit from preferential rates, importers must provide a Certificate of Origin or other proof of eligibility as required by the specific trade agreement. It is vital to ensure the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the agreement.
Can you provide an example of how duty is calculated for safety fuses if they don't qualify for preferential treatment?
Certainly. If safety fuses (HS 360310) are imported from a country that does not have a preferential trade agreement with the importing country, the standard MFN duty rate applies. Let's assume the MFN rate is 3.5% ad valorem and the customs value of the shipment is $5,000. The duty calculation would be: Duty Amount = Customs Value × Duty Rate. In this case, Duty Amount = $5,000 × 0.035 = $175. If the tariff also included a specific duty (e.g., per unit), that would be calculated separately and the higher of the two duties (ad valorem or specific) would typically apply, or they might be combined depending on the tariff structure (e.g., 'and/or').