HS 400251 Acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber (NBR)
Quick Answer: Acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber (NBR) imported under HS 400251 enters the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00%, and the US at a free rate under the MFN tariff. This classification covers synthetic rubber produced by the copolymerization of acrylonitrile and butadiene, often referred to as nitrile rubber. NBR is known for its resistance to oil, fuel, and other chemicals, making it suitable for applications such as seals, hoses, and gloves. Importers should note that while the MFN rates are duty-free in these key markets, specific trade agreements or origin rules could influence final duty liability. CustomTariffs aggregates this tariff information for compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4002510000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4002510000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4002510000 | Free | — | ["kg"] |
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 400251 cover?
This subheading covers acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber (NBR) in primary forms or in plates, sheets, or strip. As per the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, Heading 4002 specifically addresses synthetic rubber and factice derived from oils, in primary forms or in plates, sheets, or strip. Subheading 4002.51 further refines this to include only acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber (NBR), a synthetic rubber known for its resistance to oil, fuel, and chemicals, as defined by official tariff schedules like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database.
What falls outside HS 400251?
The following products are excluded from HS 400251: synthetic rubbers other than acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber (NBR), such as styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) classified under 4002.19, or isoprene rubber (IR) classified under 4002.49. Also excluded are natural rubber, latex, and vulcanized rubber products, which are classified in other chapters or headings. Products that are manufactured articles of rubber, such as tires or hoses, are not covered by this subheading and would be classified based on their specific function and material composition under different HS codes.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 400251?
A common error is misclassifying NBR that has undergone specific processing or is presented in a form not considered "primary form" or "plates, sheets, or strip." For instance, compounded NBR containing significant amounts of other materials might require further analysis to determine its primary characteristic. Adherence to 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, is crucial. Misinterpreting the definition of "primary forms" can lead to incorrect classifications.
How should importers classify products under HS 400251?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 400251 involves a thorough examination of the product's composition and form. Importers and customs brokers must confirm that the product is indeed acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber (NBR) and that it is presented in a primary form, or as plates, sheets, or strip. Consulting the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and cross-referencing with the WCO Explanatory Notes for Heading 4002 is essential for accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 400251?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of NBR compound, declared at a customs value of $3,500 USD, would attract a US duty of $175.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($3,500 USD × 0.05 = $175.00). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for subheading 4002.51.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 400251?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 400251, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating NBR from Canada or Mexico can enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preferential rate, a valid origin declaration or certificate of origin is required, depending on the specific requirements outlined by US Customs and Border Protection. Other agreements may offer reduced rates for NBR originating from specific developing countries under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP).
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for Acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber (NBR) under HS code 400251?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for Acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber (NBR) under HS code 400251 is 0.00% ad valorem in the United States. In the European Union, under the TARIC system, the rate is also 0.00% ad valorem. For the United Kingdom, the UK Global Tariff lists a duty rate of Free. It is crucial to verify these rates against the specific country of import's most current tariff schedule as rates can change. Always consult the official USITC, EU TARIC, or UK Trade Tariff for definitive rates.
What specific criteria define Acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber (NBR) for HS classification under 400251?
HS code 400251 specifically covers 'Styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) and isoprene-butadiene rubber (BR) in primary forms or in plates, sheets or strip', which is incorrect for Acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber (NBR). Acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber (NBR) is classified under HS code 4002.59, which covers 'Other' synthetic rubbers and factice derived from oils, in primary forms or in plates, sheets or strip. The key distinguishing factor for NBR is its composition, primarily a copolymer of acrylonitrile and butadiene. Importers must ensure their product's technical specifications, such as monomer composition and physical properties, align with the definition of NBR to ensure correct classification.
What documentation is typically required when importing Acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber (NBR) under HS code 4002.59?
When importing Acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber (NBR), classified under HS code 4002.59, standard import documentation is required. This typically includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading/air waybill. A certificate of origin may be necessary to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. Depending on the importing country's regulations and the specific use of the NBR, additional documentation such as a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) or a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) might be requested by customs authorities to verify product composition and safety standards.
How is the import duty calculated for Acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber (NBR) if a duty rate were applicable?
Import duties are typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if NBR were subject to a 5% ad valorem duty rate and the declared customs value of a shipment was $10,000 USD, the import duty would be calculated as: 5% of $10,000 USD = $500 USD. In some cases, duties can also be based on quantity (specific duty) or a combination of value and quantity (compound duty). However, for HS code 4002.59 (Other synthetic rubbers, including NBR) in many major markets like the US and EU, the MFN duty rate is 0.00%, resulting in no duty payable.
Do common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for Acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber (NBR)?
While the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rates for Acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber (NBR) under HS code 4002.59 are often 0.00% in major economies, trade agreements can still be relevant. For instance, if a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) exists between the exporting country and the importing country, and NBR meets the rules of origin specified in that agreement, it could potentially secure duty-free entry or a reduced duty rate. Importers should consult the specific FTAs applicable to their trade lane and verify the rules of origin for HS 4002.59 with their customs broker or relevant government trade agency.