HS 680690 Other
Quick Answer: Other articles of mineral wool and similar mineral insulating materials, not elsewhere specified or included, imported under HS 6806.90 enter the UK and EU at 0.00% ad valorem, while the US has a range of rates, including Free and 30% ad valorem. This residual classification applies to insulating materials made from mineral wool, slag wool, or rock wool that do not fit into more specific HS codes within Chapter 68. Importers should exercise caution as the broad nature of this "Other" category necessitates careful examination of the specific product's composition and intended use to ensure correct classification and avoid potential duty discrepancies. CustomTariffs aggregates this information, highlighting the need for precise product descriptions when navigating these varied tariff treatments.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6806900000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6806900000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 68069000 | Free | — | — |
| 6806900010 | — | — | ["m<sup>2</sup>"] |
| 6806900020 | — | — | ["m<sup>2</sup>"] |
| 6806900090 | — | — | ["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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 680690 cover?
This subheading covers other insulating materials and refractory products not elsewhere specified within Heading 6806, which pertains to prepared binders for ready-made building materials, cast mineral compounds, and articles thereof. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this residual category captures a diverse range of articles made from mineral substances, often processed for thermal insulation or refractory purposes, that do not fit the more specific descriptions in subheadings 6806.10 (slag wool, rock wool and similar mineral wools) or 6806.20 (exfoliated vermiculite, expanded clays, slag foam and similar expanded mineral materials). The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm this residual nature, emphasizing that items must be composed of mineral substances and possess insulating or refractory properties to be considered here.
What falls outside HS 680690?
The following products are excluded from HS 680690: slag wool, rock wool, and similar mineral wools (classified under 6806.10); exfoliated vermiculite, expanded clays, expanded basaltic rock, slag foam, and similar expanded mineral materials (classified under 6806.20); and any articles of cement, concrete, or stone, even if they possess insulating properties, unless they are specifically prepared binders or cast mineral compounds falling under the scope of Chapter 68. For instance, pre-cast concrete insulation blocks or ceramic tiles designed for high-temperature applications would typically be classified elsewhere based on their primary material composition and form, rather than their insulating function alone.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 680690?
A common error is misclassifying products that have insulating or refractory properties but are primarily composed of materials other than mineral substances, or are finished articles of other chapters. For example, certain organic polymer-based insulation foams, while functionally similar, would not fall under 6806. This can also occur when products are too specifically described in other headings. Adherence to the General Rules for the Interpretation of the Harmonized System (GRI), particularly 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 to avoid these mistakes.
How should importers classify products under HS 680690?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 680690 involves a detailed examination of the product's composition, intended use, and physical characteristics. Importers and customs brokers must first consult the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and the specific national tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff. If the product is a mineral-based material intended for thermal insulation or refractory applications and is not specifically covered by subheadings 6806.10 or 6806.20, then 6806.90 is likely appropriate. Obtaining a binding ruling from customs authorities is recommended for complex cases to ensure compliance and avoid penalties.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 680690?
A shipment of 500 kilograms of specialized ceramic fiber insulation blankets, declared at a customs value of $2,500 USD, would attract a US duty of $125.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value: 5.0% × $2,500 USD = $125.00. This calculation is based on the duty rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 6806.90.9000, which is often assessed on an ad valorem basis.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 680690?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 680690, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can provide for Free (0%) duty rates for qualifying originating goods from Canada and Mexico. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or Free duty rates for eligible goods from certain developing countries, such as India. To claim these preferences, a self-certified origin statement or a specific certificate of origin, like the USMCA Certificate of Origin, is typically required, depending on the agreement and the importing country's regulations.
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FAQ
What are the typical duty rates for HS code 680690, and how can I find preferential rates?
HS code 680690, classified as 'Other' articles of insulating materials, often has varying duty rates depending on the importing country. For example, the US MFN (Most Favored Nation) rate is 3.7% ad valorem. The EU TARIC system may list different rates, and the UK Trade Tariff also provides specific rates. To find preferential rates, importers must consult the relevant trade agreements between the exporting and importing countries. For instance, goods originating from countries with a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the US may qualify for reduced or zero duties. Always verify the specific origin requirements and documentation needed to claim preferential treatment.
How is the duty for HS code 680690 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 680690 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if the US MFN duty rate is 3.7% ad valorem, and you import goods valued at $10,000, the duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (value) * 0.037 (duty rate) = $370.00. Some countries may also apply specific duties based on quantity (e.g., per kilogram or per unit), or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties. Always refer to the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the correct calculation method.
What are the classification criteria for goods falling under HS code 680690?
HS code 680690 covers 'Other' articles of insulating materials, not specifically classified elsewhere within Chapter 68 of the Harmonized System. This typically includes materials used for thermal or acoustic insulation that are not explicitly listed under headings like 6806.10 (slag wool, rock wool and similar mineral wools) or 6806.20 (exfoliated vermiculite, expanded clays, foamed slag and similar expanded mineral materials). Classification relies on the material's primary function (insulation) and its composition, ensuring it doesn't fit into a more specific HS code. Consult the Explanatory Notes of the Harmonized System and national tariff rulings for detailed guidance.
What documentation is commonly required for importing goods under HS code 680690?
Standard import documentation for HS code 680690 typically includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the country of import and the nature of the goods, additional documents may be required. This could include a certificate of origin (especially if claiming preferential duty rates), safety data sheets (SDS) if the materials pose any health or safety risks, and potentially specific import licenses or permits if the materials are subject to regulatory controls. It is crucial for importers and customs brokers to verify the exact documentation requirements with the customs authority of the importing country.
How do trade agreements, such as FTAs, impact the duty rates for HS code 680690?
Trade agreements, including Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), can significantly reduce or eliminate import duties for goods classified under HS code 680690. For a product to qualify for preferential treatment under an FTA, it must meet the rules of origin stipulated in that agreement. This often involves demonstrating that a certain percentage of the product's value was added in the exporting country or that specific manufacturing processes were performed there. Importers must obtain a certificate of origin or other proof of origin as required by the FTA. For example, if an FTA between Country A and Country B grants zero duty on certain insulating materials (HS 680690), and the goods are manufactured in Country A and meet the origin rules, they can be imported into Country B duty-free, bypassing the standard MFN or general tariff rates.