HS 681181 Not containing asbestos
Quick Answer: Articles of cement, of concrete or of artificial stone, whether or not reinforced, not containing asbestos, imported under HS 681181 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 1.70% ad valorem, and the US at a Free rate or 2.2¢/kg. This classification specifically applies to manufactured goods made from cementitious materials, concrete, or artificial stone that are free from asbestos content. Importers should be aware of potential weight-based duties in the US, which can vary significantly from ad valorem rates. CustomTariffs aggregates this information to assist with compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6811810000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6811810000 | 1.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6811810000 | 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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 681181 cover?
This subheading covers articles of cement, of concrete or of artificial stone, whether or not reinforced, not containing asbestos, as defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature. This includes items such as sheets, panels, tiles, bricks, and pipes, primarily manufactured from cementitious materials and aggregates, specifically excluding those containing any amount of asbestos fibers. Official definitions from the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm this scope, focusing on the material composition and absence of asbestos.
What falls outside HS 681181?
The following products are excluded from HS 681181: articles of cement, concrete, or artificial stone that *do* contain asbestos, which are classified under HS 6811.40. Additionally, finished goods where the cementitious material is merely a component, such as certain decorative tiles with a significant ceramic or glass element, or pre-fabricated building components with extensive metal or plastic framing, may fall under different headings. For instance, pure cement powder or unshaped cementitious mixtures are not covered.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 681181?
A common error is misinterpreting the "not containing asbestos" clause, leading to the incorrect classification of products that do contain asbestos under this subheading. Importers may also mistakenly classify finished articles made from cementitious materials but which are primarily composed of other materials, such as certain composite panels, under this heading, failing to consider General Interpretative Rule 3(b) which prioritizes essential character. Furthermore, confusion can arise with products classified under Chapter 69 (Ceramic Products) if the cementitious nature is not clearly identified.
How should importers classify products under HS 681181?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 681181 involves a thorough examination of the product's material composition, specifically confirming the absence of asbestos. Importers and customs brokers must consult the product's technical specifications and, if necessary, obtain laboratory analysis to verify its composition. Cross-referencing with the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, is crucial to ensure accurate classification based on the descriptive notes and any relevant Chapter or Section Notes.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 681181?
A shipment of 100 square meters of cement fiber roofing sheets, not containing asbestos, declared at a customs value of $500 USD, would attract a US duty of $25.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($500 USD × 0.05 = $25.00). This calculation is based on the duty rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for subheading 6811.81.00.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 681181?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 681181, 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 originating goods from member countries. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement or a specific declaration on the invoice, depending on the agreement and the exporting country's regulations.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 681181 (articles of asbestos-free cement)?
Import duty rates for HS code 681181 vary by importing country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is Free. However, preferential rates under trade agreements may apply. Importers should consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for precise rates. The World Customs Organization (WCO) provides a framework, but national implementations differ.
How is the duty calculated for HS code 681181 if it's not an ad valorem rate?
While many duties are ad valorem (a percentage of value), some specific duties are based on weight or other units. For instance, if a country applied a specific duty of 2.2¢/kg on articles of asbestos-free cement (HS 681181), and an importer brought in 1000 kg of such articles valued at $5,000, the duty calculation would be: 1000 kg * $0.022/kg = $22.00. This is a hypothetical example; actual rates must be verified.
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 681181?
HS code 681181 covers 'Articles of cement, of concrete or of artificial stone, whether or not reinforced, other than those of heading 6809 or 6810, not containing asbestos.' The primary criteria are that the articles must be made from cement, concrete, or artificial stone, and crucially, they must not contain asbestos. Reinforcement is permitted. Articles primarily of plaster (heading 6809) or ceramic (heading 6810) are excluded.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods under HS code 681181?
Standard import documentation is generally required, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. For HS code 681181, specific documentation may include a manufacturer's declaration or certificate confirming that the articles are asbestos-free. This is crucial to ensure correct classification and compliance with any health or safety regulations. Importers should always check the specific requirements of the destination country's customs authority.
Do trade agreements, such as USMCA or EU trade deals, offer preferential duty rates for HS code 681181?
Yes, trade agreements can significantly impact duty rates for HS code 681181. For example, goods originating from countries with preferential trade agreements with the importing nation may qualify for reduced or zero duty rates. For imports into the US, the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) might offer preferential treatment for qualifying goods from Canada or Mexico. Similarly, the EU has numerous trade agreements that could provide preferential access. To claim preferential treatment, importers typically need a certificate of origin and must meet the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement.