HS 370690 Other
Quick Answer: Cinematographic film imported under HS 370690 enters the UK duty-free, the EU at 0.00% with a maximum of 3.50 EUR per 100 meters, and the US at 10¢ per meter under the MFN rate. This residual classification applies to exposed and developed cinematographic film, excluding those specifically enumerated in other headings within Chapter 37. Importers should note that while the UK offers duty-free entry, the EU and US have specific rates that require careful consideration for landed cost calculations. According to CustomTariffs data, variations in these rates highlight the importance of verifying specific product details against the relevant jurisdiction's tariff schedule.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3706905200 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 3706909900 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 3706900000 | — | — | — |
| 3706909100 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3706900000 | — | — | — |
| 3706905200 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 3706909100 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 3706909900 | 5.40 % MAX 3.50 EUR / 100 m | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3706900030 | — | — | ["m"] |
| 37069000 | Free | — | — |
| 3706900060 | — | — | ["m"] |
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?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 370690 cover?
This subheading covers other photographic film and paper, exposed and developed, not falling under more specific categories within heading 3706. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this includes various types of developed photographic materials not specifically enumerated elsewhere in the heading, such as certain types of motion picture film or other specialized photographic prints. For the United States, the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) defines this as "Other," encompassing items not otherwise specified within heading 3706, provided they are exposed and developed photographic or cinematographic film and plates. The EU TARIC system also aligns with this residual classification for exposed and developed photographic materials.
What falls outside HS 370690?
The following products are excluded from HS 370690: unexposed photographic film and plates (Chapter 37, heading 3701 or 3702), photographic paper, etc., unexposed (Chapter 37, heading 3703), and photographic apparatus and equipment (Chapter 90). Specifically, blank film rolls, photographic paper before exposure and development, and cameras or projectors are classified under different headings. For instance, undeveloped film is classified under 3702, and photographic paper before exposure is under 3703. Exposed but undeveloped film would also not fall under this code.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 370690?
A common error is misclassifying unexposed photographic materials or photographic paper as exposed and developed film. This often occurs when the importer is not fully aware of the specific requirements of General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, which states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. For example, classifying blank photographic paper, which is covered by 3703, under 370690 would be incorrect. Another mistake involves classifying photographic equipment, such as cameras, under this heading instead of Chapter 90.
How should importers classify products under HS 370690?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 370690 involves first confirming that the item is photographic film or plates that have been both exposed and developed. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, and review the explanatory notes for heading 3706. If the product meets the criteria of being exposed and developed and is not specifically covered by other subheadings within 3706, then 370690 is the appropriate classification. Verification of the product's physical characteristics and intended use is paramount.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 370690?
A shipment of 100 rolls of developed X-ray film, weighing 50 kg and declared at a customs value of $2,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $200.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 10% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($2,000 USD × 10% = $200.00). This is calculated using the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HTS code 370690. Note that specific types of film, like medical X-ray film, may have specific provisions or exemptions in certain jurisdictions.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 370690?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 370690, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating goods may receive a duty rate of Free. The primary origin countries benefiting from this preferential rate would be Canada and Mexico. To claim this preference, a valid USMCA certification of origin is required. For goods imported into the European Union from certain developing countries, the Generalised Scheme of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or free duties, requiring a GSP Form A.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 370690, and how is the duty calculated?
HS code 370690 covers 'Other' photographic film and plates, exposed and developed, other than cinematographic. Duty rates vary significantly by importing country. For example, the United States applies a 0.00% Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate. In contrast, the European Union's TARIC system might show rates such as 5.40% ad valorem, capped at 3.50 EUR per 100 meters. To calculate ad valorem duty: Duty = Value of Goods × Duty Rate. For instance, if goods valued at $1,000 are subject to a 5.40% ad valorem duty, the duty would be $1,000 × 0.054 = $54. If a specific duty applies, like 10¢/m, and you import 500 meters, the duty would be 500 m × $0.10/m = $50. Always verify the specific rate applicable to your import destination and the exact basis of duty calculation (ad valorem, specific, or compound).
What specific criteria determine if exposed and developed photographic film falls under HS code 370690 ('Other')?
HS code 370690 is a residual category for exposed and developed photographic film and plates, excluding cinematographic film. This means it applies to film and plates that have undergone a development process after exposure to light or other radiation, but are not intended for motion pictures. Examples include exposed X-ray films, slides, and other specialized photographic plates or films that do not fit into more specific subheadings within Chapter 37. The key is that the image is fixed and visible, and it's not for use in a movie camera.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 370690?
Standard import documentation is generally required for HS code 370690. This includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list specifying the contents of each package; and a bill of lading or air waybill as the contract of carriage. Depending on the country of import and the nature of the film (e.g., medical X-rays), additional documentation might be necessary, such as import licenses, certificates of origin if preferential duty rates are claimed, or specific declarations regarding the content or handling of the material. Always consult the customs authority of the importing country for a definitive list.
Do trade agreements, such as the USMCA or EU Free Trade Agreements, offer preferential duty rates for HS code 370690?
Preferential duty rates under trade agreements depend entirely on the specific agreement and the origin of the goods. For instance, if the exposed film originates from a country that is a party to a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the importing country (e.g., USMCA for imports into the US from Canada or Mexico, or an EU FTA for imports into the EU), it may qualify for reduced or zero duty rates. To claim preferential treatment, importers must typically provide a Certificate of Origin or other proof of origin as stipulated by the trade agreement. It is crucial to verify the rules of origin for the specific trade agreement and the HS code in question with the relevant customs authorities or trade databases like the USITC's Tariff Tool or the EU's TARIC system.