HS 681512 Fabrics of carbon fibres
Quick Answer: Fabrics of carbon fibres imported under HS 681512 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00%, and the US at a rate that can be as high as 45% ad valorem, though some may be free. This code specifically covers woven, knitted, or crocheted fabrics made from carbon fibres, often used in high-performance applications like aerospace and sporting goods. Importers should be aware of the significant duty rate disparities, particularly the high US tariff, which may necessitate careful consideration of origin and potential trade agreements. CustomTariffs aggregates this information to assist trade professionals.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6815120000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6815120000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6815120000 | 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 681512 cover?
This subheading covers fabrics specifically manufactured from carbon fibres. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, these are textiles woven, felted, or otherwise produced from carbon fibres, intended for use in various industrial applications. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this classification applies to materials where carbon fibres are the principal constituent, forming a textile structure.
What falls outside HS 681512?
The following products are excluded from HS 681512: composite materials where carbon fibres are merely a component within a resin matrix or other binding agent, such as carbon fibre reinforced plastics (CFRP) molded into specific shapes, which are typically classified under Chapter 39. Also excluded are carbon fibres in bulk form or as rovings, yarns, or chopped strands that have not yet been processed into fabrics, as well as non-textile articles made from carbon fibres, such as carbon brushes for electrical motors.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 681512?
A common error is misclassifying composite materials as fabrics of carbon fibres. General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1 of the Harmonized System states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes. If a product is a composite material, it should be classified based on its essential character, often falling under Chapter 39 for plastics or other relevant chapters depending on the primary constituent, rather than as a textile product.
How should importers classify products under HS 681512?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 681512 involves a thorough examination of the product's composition and form. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the material is indeed a fabric constructed from carbon fibres. Consulting the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, and reviewing explanatory notes or seeking a binding ruling from customs authorities are crucial steps to ensure accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 681512?
A roll of carbon fibre fabric weighing 50 kilograms and declared at a customs value of $10,000 USD would attract a US duty of $500.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5% ad valorem, as published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS 6815.12.0000 (5% × $10,000 USD = $500.00). Note that specific end-use or country of origin may alter this rate.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 681512?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 681512, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can lead to a duty rate of Free for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. For goods originating from the United Kingdom, preferential duty rates may be available under the UK-US Free Trade Agreement (currently under negotiation, but historical agreements may apply). Documentation required typically includes a USMCA Certificate of Origin or a self-certified origin statement for USMCA, and specific origin documentation for other agreements.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 6815.12 (Fabrics of carbon fibres)?
The import duty rates for HS code 6815.12, 'Fabrics of carbon fibres,' vary significantly by importing country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is 0.00%. In the European Union, the TARIC system often shows a 0.00% duty rate for this classification. The UK Trade Tariff also typically lists a 0.00% duty rate. However, some countries may impose higher duties. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for the definitive rate.
How is HS code 6815.12 'Fabrics of carbon fibres' classified? What are the key criteria?
HS code 6815.12 covers fabrics specifically made from carbon fibres. Classification hinges on the material composition and form. The primary criterion is that the material must be a fabric woven, felted, or otherwise constructed from continuous or chopped carbon fibres. It excludes raw carbon fibres, carbon powders, or articles made from carbon fibre composites where the fabric itself is not the primary component or is further processed into finished goods (which would fall under different HS codes). The World Customs Organization (WCO) Explanatory Notes provide guidance on the definition of 'fabrics' in this context.
What documentation is typically required when importing goods classified under HS 6815.12?
When importing fabrics of carbon fibres (HS 6815.12), standard import documentation is usually required. This includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the specific end-use, a certificate of origin may be necessary, especially if preferential duty rates are claimed under a trade agreement. Importers should also be prepared to provide technical specifications or data sheets confirming the material composition if requested by customs authorities to verify the HS classification.
Do common trade agreements, like USMCA or EU trade deals, offer preferential duty rates for HS code 6815.12?
Yes, common trade agreements can significantly impact duty rates for HS code 6815.12. For instance, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), goods originating in Canada or Mexico may qualify for preferential duty rates, often 0.00%, provided they meet the rules of origin. Similarly, the European Union has numerous trade agreements with third countries that could reduce or eliminate duties on carbon fibre fabrics originating from those partner nations. To claim preferential treatment, a valid certificate of origin is typically mandatory, and importers must ensure the goods meet the specific rules of origin outlined in the respective trade agreement.
How is the import duty calculated for HS 6815.12 if a duty rate applies? Can you provide an example?
The calculation of import duty for HS 6815.12 depends on whether the duty is ad valorem (a percentage of the value) or specific (a fixed amount per unit). For example, if a country imposes a 5% ad valorem duty on fabrics of carbon fibres and an importer declares a shipment valued at $10,000 USD, the duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (Value) × 0.05 (5% duty rate) = $500 USD. If a specific duty were applied, such as $2 per square meter, and the shipment contained 500 square meters, the duty would be: 500 (sq meters) × $2 (per sq meter) = $1,000. Always verify the duty basis (ad valorem, specific, or compound) with the destination country's tariff schedule.