HS 681320 Containing asbestos
Quick Answer: Articles of asbestos, whether or not reinforced, enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 2.70% ad valorem, and the US at rates ranging from Free to 25% ad valorem. This HS code specifically covers friction material, such as brake pads and clutch facings, that contain asbestos. Due to widespread health concerns and regulations, the use and import of asbestos-containing materials are heavily restricted or prohibited in many jurisdictions. Importers and customs brokers must verify specific national regulations and prohibitions beyond mere tariff rates, as the trade of such goods may be subject to stringent licensing or outright bans. CustomTariffs aggregates this information for compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6813200010 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 6813200090 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 6813200000 | — | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6813200010 | — | — | — |
| 6813200000 | — | — | — |
| 6813200090 | 2.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 68132000 | Free | — | — |
| 6813200010 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 6813200015 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 6813200020 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 6813200025 | — | — | ["No."] |
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 681320 cover?
This subheading covers friction material and articles thereof, of a character used in brakes, whether or not reinforced, and other articles of asbestos-cement or asbestos-mineral mixtures, specifically those containing asbestos. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category is defined by the presence of asbestos as a key component in friction materials, such as brake pads and linings for vehicles, as well as other manufactured goods where asbestos provides reinforcement or heat resistance. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database confirm this scope, focusing on articles where asbestos is integral to their function.
What falls outside HS 681320?
The following products are excluded from HS 681320: friction materials and articles thereof not containing asbestos, which are classified under HS 681380. Additionally, pure asbestos fibers or raw asbestos, unworked or simply processed but not manufactured into articles, are typically classified under Chapter 25. Articles of asbestos-cement or asbestos-mineral mixtures that are not friction materials and do not fall under the specific character of brake components are also excluded, often being classified under other headings within Chapter 68 or elsewhere depending on their primary material composition and use.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 681320?
A common error is the misclassification of friction materials that do not contain asbestos. General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1 states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Importers may incorrectly classify asbestos-free brake pads under HS 681320 if they overlook the explicit "containing asbestos" requirement. Conversely, articles that do contain asbestos but are not friction materials for brakes might be misclassified if their specific use or composition warrants classification under a more precise heading, such as those for industrial insulation.
How should importers classify products under HS 681320?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 681320 involves a thorough examination of the product's composition and intended use. Importers and customs brokers must verify the presence of asbestos in the friction material or article. Consulting the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, is crucial. If the product is a friction material for brakes and demonstrably contains asbestos, it falls under this subheading. If there is doubt, obtaining a laboratory analysis report confirming the material composition is advisable.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 681320?
A shipment of 100 kilograms of asbestos-containing brake pads, declared at a customs value of $500 USD, would attract a US duty of $150.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 30% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value. The calculation is: 30% of $500 USD = $150.00. This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule. It is important to note that many countries have banned or severely restricted the import of asbestos-containing products, making the actual importation of such items highly regulated and potentially prohibited, irrespective of duty rates.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 681320?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 681320, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). However, due to widespread bans and restrictions on asbestos, preferential duty rates for this specific HS code are rare and often superseded by health and safety regulations. If a product were permissible and originated from a USMCA country, the preferential rate could be Free. Documentation required to claim preference under USMCA typically includes a self-certified origin statement on the commercial invoice or a separate certificate of origin, provided the product meets the relevant rules of origin.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 681320, 'Articles of asbestos, not elsewhere specified or included'?
Import duty rates for HS code 681320 vary significantly by country. For example, the United States applies a 2.70% ad valorem duty rate under its Most Favored Nation (MFN) tariff. The European Union, under the TARIC system, often lists 'Free' for this code from many trading partners, but specific country origins and trade agreements can alter this. The United Kingdom's Trade Tariff also shows varied rates, sometimes Free and sometimes higher percentages depending on the origin. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the accurate rate applicable to your shipment's origin.
What specific criteria determine if an article falls under HS code 681320, 'Containing asbestos'?
HS code 681320 is specifically for articles made of asbestos, not elsewhere specified or included in other headings. This means the article's primary composition or function must involve asbestos. Examples include brake linings, clutch facings, and other parts for vehicles or machinery that historically used asbestos for friction and heat resistance. Crucially, the presence of asbestos must be confirmed. Many countries have stringent regulations or outright bans on the import of asbestos-containing materials due to health risks. Verification often requires laboratory analysis or manufacturer declarations.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 681320?
Beyond standard import documentation such as a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading, importing articles containing asbestos (HS 681320) often necessitates specific declarations and certifications. Importers may need to provide a Certificate of Origin to claim preferential duty rates. Due to health and safety concerns, many countries require a declaration from the exporter stating the exact asbestos content or confirming its absence if the classification is disputed. Some jurisdictions may also require specific health and safety permits or import licenses. Always verify the importing country's specific requirements, as regulations regarding asbestos are often strict and can include prohibitions.
How is the import duty for HS code 681320 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty calculation for HS code 681320 is typically based on an ad valorem rate, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if the United States MFN duty rate of 2.70% applies and you import brake pads valued at $10,000 USD, the duty calculation would be: $10,000 (Value) × 0.0270 (Duty Rate) = $270 USD (Import Duty). If a specific duty (e.g., per unit) were applicable, the calculation would be Rate per Unit × Number of Units. Always ensure the customs value is correctly determined according to the importing country's valuation rules.
Do common trade agreements, like USMCA or EU Free Trade Agreements, affect the duty rates for HS code 681320?
Trade agreements can significantly impact duty rates for HS code 681320. For example, under the USMCA, certain goods originating from Canada or Mexico might receive preferential treatment, potentially leading to a 0.00% duty rate if they meet the agreement's rules of origin. Similarly, Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) between the EU and partner countries often provide for reduced or eliminated tariffs on eligible goods. However, due to the hazardous nature of asbestos, many countries may have specific exclusions or stringent conditions within their trade agreements for asbestos-containing materials, even if the general tariff is reduced. It is imperative to consult the specific rules of origin and preferential tariff schedules associated with the relevant trade agreement and the importing country's customs authority.