HS 681389 Other
Quick Answer: Articles of asbestos and articles of other cement, of cement or of cellulose fibre, not elsewhere specified or included, imported under HS 6813.89 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 2.70% ad valorem, and the US at 25% under the MFN rate. This residual classification applies to friction material and other articles made from these specified materials that do not fit into more specific HS headings. Importers should verify the exact composition of their goods to ensure correct classification, as misclassification can lead to incorrect duty payments and potential penalties. CustomTariffs aggregates this tariff data for compliance professionals.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6813890090 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 6813890000 | — | — | — |
| 6813890005 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 6813890020 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6813890005 | — | — | — |
| 6813890090 | 2.70 % | — | — |
| 6813890000 | — | — | — |
| 6813890020 | 2.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6813890010 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 6813890050 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 68138900 | Free | — | — |
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 681389 cover?
This subheading covers friction material in forms other than sheets, rolls, or profiles, and articles thereof, not incorporating metal or other materials, that do not fall under more specific descriptions within heading 6813. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, this category is for composite friction materials, such as brake pads or clutch facings, where the primary component is a mineral substance or a mixture of mineral substances, and which are specifically designed for their friction-generating properties in braking or clutching mechanisms, and are not elsewhere specified.
What falls outside HS 681389?
The following products are excluded from HS 681389: friction material that is incorporated with metal or other materials, such as metal-backed brake pads, which would be classified under HS 6813.20 or 6813.90 depending on the specific composition. Additionally, raw or unworked mineral substances used in the manufacture of friction materials, as well as finished articles where friction material is only a minor component and not the primary functional element, are classified elsewhere. For instance, a brake disc with integrated friction material would likely be classified under a heading for metal parts of vehicles.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 681389?
A common error is misclassifying articles where the friction material is combined with other materials, particularly metal. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b) of the Harmonized System, goods composed of different materials or components which cannot be classified by reference to GRI 3(a) are to be classified as if they consisted of the material or component which gives them their essential character. Importers may incorrectly classify metal-backed brake pads under 6813.89 when they should be classified under a subheading that accounts for the metal component, often 6813.90.
How should importers classify products under HS 681389?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 681389 involves a thorough examination of the product's composition and intended use. Importers and customs brokers must first determine if the product is friction material and if it is not specifically covered by a more precise subheading within heading 6813. Crucially, they must ascertain whether the friction material is combined with other materials, such as metal. If it is a composite article, the essential character must be identified, and if it is solely friction material not otherwise specified, then 6813.89 is appropriate.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 681389?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of non-metallic brake pads, declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $1,000.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 20% ad valorem, as published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for a similar product under heading 6813. The calculation is: 20% of $5,000 USD = $1,000.00. This rate applies to goods from countries not benefiting from preferential trade agreements.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 681389?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 681389, 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. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer duty-free entry for eligible products from certain developing countries, such as Vietnam. To claim these preferences, a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries is typically required, depending on the specific jurisdiction and agreement.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.
FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 681389?
HS code 681389, classified as 'Other' friction material and articles thereof, not reinforced, typically faces a range of duty rates depending on the importing country. For example, the United States applies a Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate of 2.70% ad valorem. The European Union's TARIC system and the UK Trade Tariff also list rates, often around 2.70% or similar, though specific rates can vary based on origin and trade agreements. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for the most accurate and up-to-date duty information.
How is the duty for HS code 681389 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 681389 is generally calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if a shipment of friction material under HS 681389 has a customs value of $10,000 and the applicable duty rate is 2.70%, the import duty would be calculated as follows: $10,000 (Customs Value) × 0.0270 (Duty Rate) = $270.00. Always ensure the customs value is determined according to the rules of the importing country, typically based on the transaction value.
What are the classification criteria for goods falling under HS code 681389?
HS code 681389 is a residual category for friction material and articles thereof, not reinforced, that do not fit into more specific subheadings within Chapter 68 of the Harmonized System. This typically includes items such as brake linings, clutch facings, and other friction components made from mineral, metallic, or cellulosic materials, or a combination thereof, which are not asbestos-based (asbestos-containing friction materials are classified elsewhere). The key is that they are designed to create friction and are not reinforced with other materials. If an item is reinforced, it would likely fall under a different HS code.
Are there common trade agreements that offer preferential duty rates for HS code 681389?
Yes, preferential duty rates for HS code 681389 can be available under various trade agreements. For example, goods originating from countries that are part of the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) may benefit from reduced or zero duties when imported into the United States, Canada, or Mexico, provided they meet the rules of origin. Similarly, the EU has numerous Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with partner countries that can reduce or eliminate duties on goods classified under 681389. Importers must verify the origin of their goods and consult the relevant trade agreement to determine eligibility for preferential treatment.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods under HS code 681389?
Standard import documentation for HS code 681389 generally includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list; and a bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the specific nature of the friction material, additional documentation might be required. This could include a certificate of origin to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements, or specific safety or compliance certificates if the material is intended for use in regulated applications (e.g., automotive safety components). Always confirm specific requirements with the customs authority of the destination country.