HS 441840 Shuttering for concrete constructional work
Quick Answer: Shuttering for concrete constructional work imported under HS 441840 enters the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00%, and the US at 33 1/3% or 3.2% ad valorem, with duty-free entry available from certain Free Trade Agreement partners. This classification covers temporary or removable molds or forms, typically made of wood or wood-based materials, used to contain wet concrete during its setting and hardening process in construction. Importers should carefully review the specific origin country's preferential trade agreements with the US to determine eligibility for reduced or zero duty rates. According to CustomTariffs data, understanding these variations is crucial for accurate duty assessment and cost planning.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4418400000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4418400000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4418400000 | 3.2% | Free (17 programs) | ["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 4418.40?
Imports of Shuttering for concrete constructional work 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, GSP, and 14 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 441840 cover?
This subheading covers shuttering, also known as formwork, specifically designed for concrete constructional work, as defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature. This includes panels, planks, and other components made of wood, whether or not assembled, intended for temporary molds into which concrete is poured. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that these items are primarily used to shape and support wet concrete until it hardens, playing a crucial role in building and infrastructure projects.
What falls outside HS 441840?
The following products are excluded from HS 441840: general-purpose lumber not specifically shaped or prepared for shuttering, such as raw planks or boards intended for other construction uses. Also excluded are prefabricated formwork systems that are primarily made of materials other than wood, such as metal or plastic. Furthermore, items like scaffolding, temporary supports not directly forming the concrete mold, or finished wooden articles for building interiors, such as doors or windows, are classified elsewhere, typically under their respective headings.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 441840?
A common error is misclassifying general-purpose plywood or particleboard as shuttering when it has not been specifically prepared or designated for concrete formwork. According to General Interpretative Rule 1 of the Harmonized System, classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes. If the wood product is not intended for the specific function of shuttering, it should not be classified under 441840, even if it could potentially be adapted for such use.
How should importers classify products under HS 441840?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 441840 involves a thorough examination of the product's intended use and physical characteristics. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the wooden components are specifically designed and manufactured for use as shuttering in concrete construction. Reviewing product specifications, invoices, and manufacturer declarations is essential. Consulting the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, for detailed descriptions and explanatory notes will ensure accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 441840?
A shipment of 100 square meters of pine plywood shuttering panels, each measuring 1.2m x 2.4m x 18mm, with a declared customs value of $1,500 USD, would attract a US duty of $150.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 10% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($1,500 USD × 10% = $150.00). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, HTS subheading 4418.40.00.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 441840?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 441840, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) may also offer preferential rates for goods from member countries. Documentation required to claim preference typically includes a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a specific certificate of origin for CPTPP, depending on the origin country and specific provisions.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 441840 (Shuttering for concrete constructional work)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS 441840 can vary significantly by country. For example, the United States applies a 0.00% MFN rate. The European Union, under the TARIC system, often has a rate around 3.2% ad valorem, though this can be subject to specific origin rules and trade agreements. The United Kingdom's Trade Tariff also lists varying rates, often around 3.2% ad valorem. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate.
Are there preferential duty rates available for HS 441840 under trade agreements?
Yes, preferential duty rates are frequently available for HS 441840. For instance, under the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), qualifying shuttering may enter duty-free. Many other trade agreements, such as those between the EU and various partner countries (e.g., EFTA, Mercosur), or bilateral agreements involving countries like Australia (AU), South Korea (KR), or Singapore (SG), often provide for reduced or duty-free entry. Importers must ensure they have the necessary proof of origin documentation to claim these preferential rates.
What are the classification criteria for goods to be classified under HS 441840?
HS code 441840 specifically covers 'Shuttering for concrete constructional work' made of wood. This includes panels, frames, and other components designed for use in forming concrete structures during construction. The key criterion is the intended use in concrete construction. Goods that are merely general-purpose wooden boards or panels, even if they could theoretically be used for shuttering, would not be classified here if they are not specifically designed or presented for that purpose. The material must be wood, including plywood or similar laminated wood products.
How is the import duty for HS 441840 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty calculation for HS 441840 typically depends on whether the rate is ad valorem (a percentage of the value) or specific (a fixed amount per unit). If the duty rate is '3.2% ad valorem', the calculation is: Duty = (Customs Value of Goods × Duty Rate). For example, if a shipment of shuttering panels has a customs value of $10,000 and the duty rate is 3.2%, the import duty would be $10,000 × 0.032 = $320. If a specific duty applies, such as '$5 per cubic meter', the calculation would be: Duty = (Quantity in Cubic Meters × Specific Duty Rate). Always verify the applicable duty basis (ad valorem, specific, or a combination) with the importing country's tariff schedule.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods under HS code 441840?
Standard import documentation for HS 441840 includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the shuttering; a packing list; and a bill of lading or air waybill. Crucially, if claiming preferential duty rates under a trade agreement, a Certificate of Origin or a declaration of origin is mandatory. Depending on the importing country and the specific product, additional documentation such as phytosanitary certificates might be required if the wood is not treated or if it originates from certain regions to prevent the introduction of pests. Always consult the importing country's customs authority for a comprehensive list.