HS 681381 Not containing asbestos
Quick Answer: Articles of asbestos-free friction material imported under HS 681381 enter the EU at 2.70% ad valorem, the US at 25% ad valorem (MFN), and the UK at 0.00% ad valorem. This classification specifically covers friction material, such as brake pads and clutch facings, that do not contain asbestos. Importers should be aware of the significant duty rate disparity between major trading blocs. According to CustomTariffs data, careful classification is crucial to ensure compliance and optimize landed costs. Exporters should verify the specific tariff treatment in their destination markets.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6813810000 | — | — | — |
| 6813810010 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 6813810090 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6813810000 | — | — | — |
| 6813810090 | 2.70 % | — | — |
| 6813810010 | — | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 68138100 | Free | — | — |
| 6813810010 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 6813810050 | — | — | ["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 681381 cover?
This subheading covers friction material and articles thereof, not containing asbestos, for brakes, clutch facings, and other friction articles. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category includes brake pads, brake linings, clutch plates, and other components designed to generate friction for stopping or controlling motion in vehicles and machinery. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database further define these articles as manufactured from various composite materials, excluding any asbestos content, and intended for specific friction applications.
What falls outside HS 681381?
The following products are excluded from HS 681381: friction materials containing asbestos, which are classified under HS 6813.10. Also excluded are raw or unworked friction materials not yet formed into articles for brakes or clutches, and finished articles where friction is not the primary function. For example, general industrial abrasives, polishing compounds, or heat-insulating materials not specifically designed for friction applications would be classified elsewhere, often under Chapter 68 or other relevant headings depending on their composition and intended use.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 681381?
A common error is misclassifying friction materials based solely on their appearance or general application without verifying the absence of asbestos. General Interpretative Rule (GIR) 1 of the Harmonized System mandates classification according to the terms of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes. Importers may also incorrectly classify composite friction materials under headings for their primary constituent material (e.g., rubber or plastics) rather than under HS 6813.81, which specifically addresses friction articles not containing asbestos.
How should importers classify products under HS 681381?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 681381 involves a thorough examination of the product's composition and intended use. Importers and customs brokers must confirm, through technical data sheets or supplier declarations, that the friction material is entirely free of asbestos. They should then compare the product's specific function (e.g., brake pad for a passenger vehicle) against the descriptive notes for HS 6813.81 in official tariff schedules like the USITC HTS or EU TARIC to ensure accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 681381?
A set of four brake pads for a 2023 Toyota Camry, weighing 2.5 kg and declared at a customs value of $75.00 USD, would attract a US duty of $1.50. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 2.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($75.00 × 0.02 = $1.50). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 6813.81.00.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 681381?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 681381, 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. For goods originating from the United Kingdom, a preferential rate of Free may apply under the UK-US Free Trade Agreement (if enacted) or similar arrangements. Documentation required to claim preference typically includes a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a UK Certificate of Origin for UK goods, depending on the specific jurisdiction and agreement provisions.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 6813.81, specifically for products "not containing asbestos"?
The import duty rates for HS code 6813.81 vary significantly by importing country. For example, the United States applies a 0.00% Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate. In contrast, the European Union, under the TARIC system, may have rates such as 2.70% ad valorem. The United Kingdom's Trade Tariff also lists specific rates. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for the most accurate and up-to-date duty information. Preferential rates under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) may offer lower or zero duties, provided the goods meet the rules of origin.
What are the key classification criteria for goods under HS code 6813.81, which covers friction material "not containing asbestos"?
HS code 6813.81 falls under Chapter 68 of the Harmonized System, which pertains to 'Articles of stone or of plaster; ceramic products; glass and glassware.' Specifically, heading 6813 covers 'Friction material and articles thereof, of a kind used for motor vehicle brakes or clutches, and parts thereof, not incorporating asbestos.' The primary classification criteria are that the articles must be friction materials (e.g., brake pads, clutch facings) and must not contain any asbestos. The material composition (e.g., based on resins, rubber, or other binders with reinforcing fibers) and their intended use for brakes or clutches are critical for correct classification.
What documentation is typically required when importing goods classified under HS code 6813.81?
Standard import documentation for HS code 6813.81 generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the specific product, a certificate of origin may be required, especially if claiming preferential duty rates under a Free Trade Agreement. Some countries may also require a declaration or certificate confirming that the friction material does not contain asbestos, to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations. Importers and customs brokers should verify the specific documentation requirements with the customs authorities of the destination country.
How is the import duty calculated for HS code 6813.81, and can you provide a numerical example?
Import duty for HS code 6813.81 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning a percentage of the value of the goods. For instance, if a shipment of brake pads classified under 6813.81 has a declared customs value of $10,000 USD, and the applicable duty rate in the destination country is 2.70% ad valorem, the duty calculation would be: Duty Amount = Customs Value × Duty Rate. In this example: Duty Amount = $10,000 USD × 2.70% = $270 USD. Some countries may also apply specific duties based on weight or quantity, or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties. Always confirm the basis of duty calculation with the official tariff schedule.
Which major trade agreements commonly affect the duty rates for HS code 6813.81, and how can importers benefit?
Major trade agreements such as the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), the EU's agreements with various countries, and the UK's Global Tariff (which incorporates provisions from its own FTAs) can significantly impact duty rates for HS code 6813.81. To benefit from these agreements, importers must ensure that the friction material 'not containing asbestos' meets the specific 'Rules of Origin' stipulated in the relevant FTA. This often involves verifying the country of origin of the materials used in manufacturing and ensuring sufficient value-added within the FTA member countries. A valid Certificate of Origin is typically required as proof of eligibility for preferential treatment, which can result in reduced or eliminated duties.