HS 401693 Gaskets, washers and other seals
Quick Answer: Gaskets, washers, and other seals under HS 401693 enter the UK at 2.00%, the EU at 2.50%, and the US with a range of rates including Free for certain trade agreements and up to 25% for others. This classification covers a broad spectrum of sealing components made from vulcanized rubber, excluding those for pneumatic or solid tires. These items are crucial for preventing leaks in machinery, vehicles, and various industrial applications. Importers and customs brokers should verify specific duty rates based on the country of origin and applicable trade agreements, as highlighted by CustomTariffs data, to ensure accurate declarations and compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4016930000 | — | — | — |
| 4016930030 | 2.00 % | — | — |
| 4016930010 | — | — | — |
| 4016930090 | 2.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4016930000 | — | — | — |
| 4016930010 | — | — | — |
| 4016930090 | 2.50 % | — | — |
| 4016930030 | 2.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 40169310 | 2.5% | Free (18 programs) | — |
| 401693 | — | — | — |
| 4016931010 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 4016931020 | — | — | ["No.","kg"] |
| 4016931050 | — | — | ["kg"] |
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 4016.93?
Imports of Gaskets, washers and other seals 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 18 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 to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 401693 cover?
This subheading covers gaskets, washers, and other seals made of vulcanized rubber, falling under Heading 4016 of the Harmonized System. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Explanatory Notes and national tariff schedules like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC, this category includes items designed to prevent leakage or provide a seal between two surfaces. Examples include O-rings, oil seals, and various types of rubber seals used in automotive, industrial, and household applications, provided they are not specifically excluded by other headings or subheadings within Chapter 40.
What falls outside HS 401693?
The following products are excluded from HS 401693: articles of vulcanized rubber combined with textile materials (which may fall under Chapter 59), articles of hard rubber (which are typically classified under Heading 4017), and finished articles of rubber that are specifically enumerated elsewhere in the tariff schedule. For instance, rubber tires (Heading 4011), rubber footwear (Chapter 64), and rubber hoses (Heading 4009) are classified under their respective headings, even if they perform a sealing function.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 401693?
A common error is misclassifying composite articles where rubber is not the predominant material by weight or value, or where the article's primary function is not solely sealing. For example, rubberized fabric used for industrial curtains might be incorrectly classified here instead of Chapter 59. Additionally, items that are molded or extruded but are not specifically designed as gaskets, washers, or seals, such as simple rubber strips for general use, may be misclassified. Adherence to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1 and GRI 3 is crucial.
How should importers classify products under HS 401693?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 401693 involves a thorough examination of the article's material composition, form, and intended use. Importers and customs brokers should consult the WCO Explanatory Notes for Heading 4016 and the specific national tariff schedule (e.g., USITC HTS, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff). Verify that the product is made of vulcanized rubber and its primary function is to act as a gasket, washer, or seal. If the product has multiple functions, determine the essential character according to GRI 3(b).
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 401693?
A shipment of 1,000 rubber O-rings, each weighing 5 grams (totaling 5 kg) and declared at a customs value of $1,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $100.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 2.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($1,000 USD × 0.02 = $20.00), plus a specific duty of $0.02 per kilogram ($0.02/kg × 5 kg = $0.10). The total duty is $20.10. This calculation is based on the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, where HS 4016.93.1000 has a duty rate of 2.0% ad valorem and a specific duty of $0.02/kg.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 401693?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 401693, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can provide duty-free entry for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. The Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may also offer reduced or duty-free treatment for goods from designated developing countries. To claim preference under USMCA, a valid Certificate of Origin is typically required. For GSP, a GSP Form A or a self-certified origin statement is usually necessary, depending on the importing country's regulations.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 401693 (Gaskets, washers, and other seals)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 401693 is typically 2.50% ad valorem. However, preferential rates are available for goods originating from countries with trade agreements with the importing nation. For example, under the USMCA, goods may enter duty-free. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the most accurate and up-to-date rates, as these can change. For the EU, the TARIC database is the definitive source, and for the UK, the UK Trade Tariff provides comprehensive information.
How is the import duty for HS 401693 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 401693 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if a shipment of 10,000 rubber gaskets is valued at $5,000 USD, and the MFN duty rate is 2.50%, the duty would be calculated as follows: $5,000 (customs value) × 0.025 (duty rate) = $125 USD. If there are also specific duties based on quantity (e.g., per kilogram), both may apply. Always verify the basis of duty calculation (ad valorem, specific, or compound) with the official tariff schedule.
What are the key classification criteria for goods under HS code 401693?
HS code 401693 covers 'Gaskets, washers and other seals,' made of vulcanized rubber or artificial plastic materials. The primary criterion is the material composition and the function of the item. The goods must be designed to prevent leakage or act as a seal between two surfaces. This includes items like O-rings, oil seals, and various types of rubber or plastic washers and gaskets used in machinery, automotive parts, plumbing, and other industrial applications. Items that are primarily structural or decorative, even if they offer some sealing function, may fall under different HS codes.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 401693?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates, often resulting in duty-free entry, for goods classified under HS 401693. Examples include agreements like the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), where originating goods may be duty-free. Other agreements, such as those between the EU and various partner countries (e.g., CETA with Canada, EPAs with African, Caribbean, and Pacific countries), or bilateral agreements the UK has established post-Brexit, can also offer reduced or eliminated duties. Importers must ensure they have the necessary proof of origin documentation to claim these preferential rates.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods under HS code 401693?
Standard import documentation for HS code 401693 generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Crucially, to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements, a valid Certificate of Origin or a declaration of origin (depending on the agreement's requirements) is mandatory. Depending on the end-use or specific regulations of the importing country, additional certifications related to material safety or compliance (e.g., REACH for the EU) might be necessary. Customs brokers should always verify the specific documentation requirements with the importing country's customs authority.