HS 681511 Carbon fibres; articles of carbon fibres for non-electrical uses; other articles of graphite or other carbon for non-electrical uses
Quick Answer: Carbon fibres and articles thereof for non-electrical uses, along with other articles of graphite or carbon for non-electrical uses, imported under HS 681511 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00%, and the US at a rate that can be free or as high as 4.5% ad valorem, depending on specific product and origin. This classification encompasses a range of advanced materials and finished goods, from carbon fiber composites used in aerospace and sporting equipment to graphite components for industrial applications. Importers should be aware of the significant duty rate disparity for the US market, necessitating careful product identification and origin verification. CustomTariffs aggregates this information to assist in compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6815110000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6815110000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6815110000 | 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 to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 681511 cover?
This subheading covers carbon fibres and articles manufactured from carbon fibres, specifically for non-electrical applications. It also encompasses other articles made from graphite or other carbon materials, provided they are not intended for electrical use. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category is distinct from materials primarily used in electrical components or devices. For instance, the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database provide detailed interpretations that align with this scope, focusing on the material composition and intended end-use.
What falls outside HS 681511?
The following products are excluded from HS 681511: articles of graphite or carbon specifically designed for electrical uses, such as carbon brushes for motors (typically classified under 8545), electrodes for furnaces, or components for batteries. Also excluded are raw graphite or carbon materials not yet formed into articles, and composite materials where carbon fibres are not the primary constituent or are used for electrical conductivity. For example, carbon-based lubricants or carbon black used as a pigment would be classified elsewhere.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 681511?
A common error is misinterpreting the "non-electrical uses" criterion. Importers may incorrectly classify articles that, while primarily carbon-based, have a secondary or incidental electrical function. For example, certain reinforced carbon-carbon composites used in aerospace might have subtle electrical properties that could lead to misclassification. Adherence to General Interpretative Rule 1 (GIR 1) and the Section and Chapter Notes of the Harmonized System is crucial to ensure accurate classification based on the predominant characteristic and intended use.
How should importers classify products under HS 681511?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 681511 involves a thorough examination of the product's material composition and its intended application. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, and review the explanatory notes provided by the WCO. If the product is made of carbon fibres or graphite and is not intended for electrical purposes, it likely falls under this subheading. Always verify the specific wording of the subheading and any relevant legal notes.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 681511?
A carbon fibre bicycle frame weighing 1.5 kg and declared at a customs value of $500 USD would attract a US duty of $35.00. This is calculated using the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) duty rate of 7.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($500 USD × 0.07 = $35.00). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for subheading 6815.11.0000, assuming no other preferential duty rates apply.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 681511?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 681511, 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 reduced or Free duty rates for eligible goods from certain developing countries. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries, depending on the specific requirements of the importing jurisdiction.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 681511 (Carbon fibres and articles thereof for non-electrical uses)?
Import duty rates for HS code 681511 can vary significantly by importing country. For instance, under the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS), the general (MFN) duty rate is often Free (0.00%). However, preferential rates under trade agreements may also apply. In the European Union, the TARIC system indicates a duty rate of 4.7% ad valorem for goods originating from countries without a preferential trade agreement. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the most accurate and up-to-date rates.
How is the duty calculated for articles classified under HS 681511?
The duty calculation for HS 681511 typically depends on the duty rate applied. If it's an ad valorem duty (a percentage of the value), the calculation is straightforward. For example, if an article of carbon fiber valued at $10,000 is imported into the EU and subject to a 4.7% ad valorem duty, the duty amount would be $10,000 * 0.047 = $470. Some duties might be specific (per unit) or a combination. Always verify the duty basis (ad valorem, specific, or compound) in the importing country's tariff.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods under HS code 681511?
Standard import documentation for HS 681511 includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the origin and destination, a Certificate of Origin may be required to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. Importers should also be prepared to provide technical specifications or product literature to substantiate the classification, especially for articles made of carbon fibers or graphite for non-electrical uses, to ensure compliance with the scope of this heading.
Do trade agreements significantly impact the duty rates for HS 681511?
Yes, trade agreements can significantly impact duty rates for HS 681511. For example, goods originating from countries with Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with the United States, such as Mexico or Canada under USMCA, may benefit from duty-free entry (0.00%) if they meet the rules of origin. Similarly, within the EU, goods originating from member states or countries with preferential agreements (e.g., EFTA) often have reduced or zero duties. Verification of origin and compliance with the agreement's rules of origin are crucial to claim these benefits.
What are the key criteria for classifying articles as 'carbon fibres' or 'articles of carbon fibres' under HS 681511 for non-electrical uses?
The primary criterion for classification under HS 681511 is that the material must be carbon fibres, or articles made from them, intended for non-electrical applications. This heading covers products like carbon fiber composites, woven carbon fiber fabrics, and molded carbon fiber parts used in industries such as aerospace, automotive, sporting goods, and industrial machinery. It excludes carbon fibers or articles thereof for electrical uses (which fall under Chapter 85) and certain other carbon products like carbon black or activated carbon (which have their own headings).