HS 440131 Sawdust and wood waste and scrap, agglomerated in logs, briquettes, pellets or similar forms
Quick Answer: Sawdust and wood waste and scrap, agglomerated in logs, briquettes, pellets or similar forms, imported under HS 440131 enters the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00%, and the US at Free under the MFN rate. This classification specifically covers wood by-products that have been compressed into solid, uniform shapes for easier handling and use as fuel or for other industrial purposes. Importers and customs brokers should note that while duty rates are generally favorable across major markets, compliance with any specific import regulations related to biomass fuels or waste materials in the destination country remains essential. CustomTariffs aggregates this duty information for efficient trade planning.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4401310000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4401310000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4401310000 | 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 440131 cover?
This subheading covers processed wood waste and scrap, specifically sawdust and wood waste, that have been agglomerated into solid forms such as logs, briquettes, or pellets. These forms are typically produced by compressing the raw material, often with a binder, to create a more manageable and combustible product for fuel. The World Customs Organization (WCO) Explanatory Notes for Heading 4401 clarify that this category is for waste materials that have undergone a process of agglomeration, distinguishing them from loose sawdust or wood chips. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database confirm this scope, focusing on the agglomerated nature of the product.
What falls outside HS 440131?
The following products are excluded from HS 440131: loose sawdust, wood chips, wood shavings, and wood waste that has not been agglomerated into logs, briquettes, pellets, or similar forms. Also excluded are wood products that have undergone significant further processing, such as particleboard or fiberboard (classified under Chapter 44, heading 4410 or 4411 respectively), or charcoal (classified under heading 4402). Wood waste that is intended for other uses, such as animal bedding, may also fall under different classifications if not agglomerated for fuel purposes.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 440131?
A common error is misclassifying loose sawdust or wood chips under this subheading, failing to recognize that HS 440131 specifically requires the material to be agglomerated. Another mistake involves classifying products that are essentially manufactured wood articles, like small wooden toys or decorative items made from wood waste, under this heading. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes, emphasizing the form and intended use of the product.
How should importers classify products under HS 440131?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 440131 involves first confirming that the product is indeed sawdust, wood waste, or scrap. Subsequently, it is crucial to verify that this material has been agglomerated into logs, briquettes, pellets, or a similar consolidated form. Importers and customs brokers should consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, and review the specific wording of heading 4401 and subheading 440131, along with any relevant explanatory notes or rulings, to ensure accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 440131?
A shipment of 10 metric tons of wood pellets, declared at a customs value of $1,500 USD, would attract a US duty of $0.00. This is because the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS 440131 in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule is 0% ad valorem. Therefore, the duty calculation is 0% × $1,500 USD = $0.00 USD. This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, which is freely accessible online.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 440131?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 440131, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating goods from Canada and Mexico are typically admitted duty-free. For example, wood pellets originating from Canada would be subject to a 0% duty rate. To claim this preferential rate, a valid USMCA certification of origin is required. Other agreements may offer reduced rates depending on the origin country and specific provisions.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 440131 (sawdust, wood waste, etc., agglomerated)?
For HS code 440131, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates are generally 0.00% in major markets like the United States and the European Union. For instance, under the EU's TARIC system, the rate is often listed as 'Free'. Similarly, the UK Trade Tariff also indicates a 'Free' rate. Always verify the specific rate applicable to your country of import and origin, as preferential agreements can further reduce or eliminate duties.
What specific criteria define 'agglomerated in logs, briquettes, pellets or similar forms' for HS 440131?
HS code 440131 covers sawdust, wood chips, shavings, and other wood waste and scrap that have been processed into a more compact form. This includes logs, briquettes, or pellets, typically created by compressing the raw material with or without a binder. The key is that the material is no longer in its loose, original waste form but has been artificially shaped for easier handling, storage, and combustion. The WCO (World Customs Organization) Explanatory Notes provide further guidance on the characteristics of these agglomerated forms.
Are there specific documentation requirements for importing goods under HS 440131?
While HS 440131 itself may carry a 0.00% duty, importers and customs brokers must still ensure compliance with general import regulations. This typically includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading. Depending on the origin and destination, phytosanitary certificates may be required to prevent the spread of pests and diseases associated with wood products. It is crucial to check the specific import requirements of the destination country, as outlined by their customs authority (e.g., USITC for the US, EU TARIC for the EU, UK Trade Tariff for the UK).
How is the duty calculated for HS 440131 if a duty were applicable, and what is an example calculation?
Since the duty rate for HS 440131 is typically 0.00%, the duty amount is zero. However, if a hypothetical duty rate of 2.5% ad valorem were applied, the calculation would be as follows: Duty = Value of Goods × Duty Rate. For example, if you imported 10 metric tons of pellets valued at $2,000 USD (total value), and the duty rate was 2.5% ad valorem: Duty = $2,000 USD × 0.025 = $50 USD. In practice, for this specific HS code, the duty would be $0.00.
Do common trade agreements, such as USMCA or EU trade deals, offer preferential duty rates for HS 440131?
Given that the standard MFN duty rates for HS 440131 are often Free (0.00%), preferential trade agreements may not offer further reductions. However, for goods originating from countries that are signatories to agreements like the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) or various EU Free Trade Agreements, it is always prudent to verify if specific rules of origin apply. These agreements can sometimes simplify customs procedures or provide benefits even when the duty rate is already zero, such as exemption from certain fees or expedited clearance. Consult the customs regulations of the importing country and the text of the relevant trade agreement.