HS 360320 Detonating cords
Quick Answer: Detonating cords imported under HS 360320 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 6.00%, and the US at a Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate of 3%, with duty-free entry from several partner countries. This HS code specifically covers flexible tubes containing a core of explosive material, designed to initiate explosives from a distance. Importers should be aware of stringent regulations surrounding the import and handling of such goods due to their hazardous nature. According to CustomTariffs data, while the UK offers duty-free entry, other major markets have varying tariff structures and potential preferential rates for qualifying origins.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3603200000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3603200000 | 6.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3603200000 | 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 3603.20?
Imports of Detonating cords 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 360320 cover?
This subheading covers detonating cords, which are flexible tubes containing a core of high explosive. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, these cords are designed to initiate explosives, typically by transmitting a detonation wave. They are distinct from safety fuses, which burn at a controlled rate. Official definitions, such as those found in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database, confirm that this classification applies to cords specifically manufactured for the purpose of detonation, often used in mining, quarrying, and demolition.
What falls outside HS 360320?
The following products are excluded from HS 360320: safety fuses (classified under HS 360310), which are designed to burn at a predetermined rate to allow personnel to retreat before an explosive charge detonates; fireworks and other pyrotechnic articles (HS 3604); and blasting caps and other detonators (HS 360390). It is crucial to distinguish between the cord that transmits the detonation and the device that initiates the cord, as well as fuses that provide a timed ignition rather than an instantaneous detonation wave.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 360320?
A common error is misclassifying detonating cords as safety fuses or other pyrotechnic articles. This often arises from a misunderstanding of the product's primary function and mechanism of action. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, classification is determined by the terms of the heading and any relative section or chapter notes. Detonating cords are specifically designed to propagate a detonation, not to burn or produce visual/auditory effects, which are characteristics of other HS classifications.
How should importers classify products under HS 360320?
The correct procedure for classifying detonating cords involves a thorough examination of the product's technical specifications and intended use. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the product is indeed a flexible cord containing a high explosive designed to initiate other explosives. Consulting the WCO HS Explanatory Notes, national tariff schedules like the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and potentially requesting a binding ruling from customs authorities are essential steps to ensure accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 360320?
A shipment of 1,000 meters of "Detonating Cord 50g/m" declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD would attract a US duty. Assuming a Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5% ad valorem for detonating cords under the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, the duty would be calculated as 5% of $5,000, resulting in a duty amount of $250.00. This calculation is based on the declared value of the goods as per the USITC HTS, Chapter 36, Heading 3603.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 360320?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 360320, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating detonating cords from Canada or Mexico can be imported duty-free. To claim this preference, a valid origin declaration or certificate of origin is required, depending on the specific requirements of US Customs and Border Protection. While not universally applicable to this specific product, other agreements might offer reduced rates for originating goods from specific developing countries under GSP programs.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 360320 (Detonating cords) into the United States?
For imports into the United States, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 360320 is 0.00%. However, it's crucial to check for any specific trade agreements or temporary duty suspensions that might apply. For instance, goods originating from countries with preferential trade agreements may have different duty rates. Always consult the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) maintained by the US International Trade Commission (USITC) for the most current and definitive tariff information.
How is the duty calculated for detonating cords if a duty rate other than 0.00% were applicable?
Duty calculation for detonating cords typically involves either an ad valorem rate (a percentage of the value of the goods) or a specific rate (a fixed amount per unit of quantity), or a combination of both. For example, if a country applied a 6.00% ad valorem duty rate and the declared customs value of a shipment of detonating cords was $10,000, the ad valorem duty would be $10,000 * 6.00% = $600. If a specific duty applied, such as $0.50 per kilogram, and the shipment weighed 1,000 kilograms, the specific duty would be 1,000 kg * $0.50/kg = $500. The final duty amount would be the sum of applicable duties.
What are the classification criteria for detonating cords under HS code 360320?
HS code 360320 specifically covers 'Detonating cords'. This generally refers to flexible cords containing a core of high explosive, designed to initiate explosives at a distance. Key classification criteria include the presence of a detonating explosive core and its function in initiating other explosive charges. It is distinct from safety fuses (HS 360310) which primarily burn at a controlled rate to initiate an explosive charge, or other explosive articles. The World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes provide detailed guidance on distinguishing between different types of fuses and cords.
Which trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for detonating cords (HS 360320) into the EU?
The European Union's tariff system (TARIC) provides preferential duty rates for goods originating from countries with which the EU has trade agreements. For HS code 360320, preferential rates can be found for countries listed under codes such as 'AU' (Australia), 'CL' (Chile), 'CO' (Colombia), 'IL' (Israel), 'KR' (South Korea), 'MA' (Morocco), 'PA' (Panama), 'PE' (Peru), and 'SG' (Singapore), among others, often indicating a 'Free' duty rate (0.00%). Importers must ensure they have valid proof of origin to claim these preferential rates. Always consult the EU's TARIC database for the most accurate and up-to-date preferential tariff treatment.
What documentation is typically required for importing detonating cords (HS 360320) into the UK?
Importing detonating cords (HS 360320) into the United Kingdom requires specific documentation due to the nature of the goods. Beyond the standard commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading/air waybill, importers must comply with regulations concerning explosives. This typically includes obtaining necessary licenses or permits from the relevant UK authorities (e.g., the Health and Safety Executive or the Office for Product Safety and Standards), and ensuring the goods meet safety standards. A Certificate of Origin may be required to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. Always refer to the UK Trade Tariff and relevant government guidance for explosives import regulations.