HS 681520 Articles of peat
Quick Answer: Articles of peat imported under HS 681520 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00%, and the US at a Free rate under the MFN tariff. This classification covers manufactured articles made from peat, a combustible, dark, soil-like material formed from partially decomposed vegetation in bogs. Examples include peat briquettes for fuel, peat-based horticultural products, and insulation materials. Importers should note the significant duty rate disparity for the US market compared to the UK and EU. According to CustomTariffs, understanding these jurisdictional differences is crucial for accurate landed cost calculations and compliance planning.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6815200000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6815200000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6815200000 | 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 681520 cover?
This subheading covers articles of peat, as defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature. This includes a broad range of products manufactured from peat, a partially decayed organic matter accumulated in bogs. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this category encompasses items such as peat-based horticultural products, peat briquettes for fuel, and other manufactured goods where peat is the primary constituent material, excluding those specifically classified elsewhere in Chapter 68.
What falls outside HS 681520?
The following products are excluded from HS 681520: raw or unprocessed peat, which is typically classified under HS 2703; articles of peat mixed with other materials where peat is not the predominant component; and finished goods that may incorporate peat but are primarily classified by their function or other constituent materials, such as certain types of insulation or composite building materials. For instance, peat moss used solely as animal bedding might be classified differently depending on specific national interpretations and the presence of any binding agents.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 681520?
A common error is misclassifying articles where peat is a component but not the principal material by weight or volume, or where the article's essential character is derived from another substance. For example, a composite horticultural pot made of peat and plastic might be incorrectly classified under 681520 if the plastic component imparts the essential character. Adherence to the General Rules for the Interpretation of the Harmonized System (GRI), particularly GRI 3, is crucial to ensure correct classification based on the predominant material or essential character.
How should importers classify products under HS 681520?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 681520 involves a thorough examination of the product's composition and manufacturing process. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and review the explanatory notes for Chapter 68. They should determine if peat is the predominant material by weight or volume and if the article is not specifically provided for in a more specific heading or subheading. A detailed product description and material breakdown are essential for accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 681520?
A shipment of 100 kilograms of peat briquettes for fuel, declared at a customs value of $500 USD, would attract a US duty of $15.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.0% ad valorem, applied to the customs value. Therefore, the duty is $500 USD × 0.03 = $15.00. This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 6815.20.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 681520?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 681520, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for originating goods from Canada and Mexico, requiring a self-certified origin statement. The Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may also offer duty-free entry for eligible products from designated developing countries, typically requiring a GSP Form A. Specific preferential rates and documentation requirements should always be verified against the relevant trade agreement and the importing country's tariff schedule.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 681520 (Articles of peat)?
Import duty rates for HS code 681520 vary by country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is Free. In the European Union, under TARIC, the rate is also typically Free. The UK Trade Tariff also lists a Free rate for this classification. However, other countries may apply higher rates; for instance, a rate of 20% is a possible rate in some jurisdictions. Always verify the specific rate applicable to your import destination and origin country.
How is HS code 681520 defined, and what types of products fall under 'Articles of peat'?
HS code 681520 covers articles manufactured from peat. Peat is a build-up of partially decayed vegetation or organic matter, typically found in bogs and mires. Articles under this code are typically formed or shaped from peat. This can include items such as peat briquettes for fuel, peat pots for horticulture, peat-based substrates, or molded peat products. The key criterion is that the primary component and form of the article must be derived from peat.
Are there specific documentation requirements for importing articles of peat (HS 681520)?
While specific documentation can vary by importing country, standard requirements for HS code 681520 generally include a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the intended use and origin, additional documentation might be required. For instance, if peat is imported for horticultural purposes, phytosanitary certificates might be necessary to prevent the introduction of pests and diseases. Importers should consult the customs authorities of the destination country for precise requirements.
How are import duties calculated for articles of peat if a duty rate applies?
Import duties for articles of peat are typically calculated based on either an ad valorem rate (a percentage of the value of the goods) or a specific rate (a fixed amount per unit of quantity). For example, if a country applies a 5% ad valorem duty on articles of peat and the declared value of the imported peat articles is $10,000, the duty would be $500 (5% of $10,000). If a specific duty of $0.10 per kilogram applies and you import 5,000 kg, the duty would be $500 ($0.10 × 5,000 kg). Always confirm the duty calculation method and the applicable rate with the destination country's customs tariff.
Do trade agreements, such as USMCA or EU trade deals, affect the duty rates for HS code 681520?
Yes, trade agreements can significantly impact duty rates for HS code 681520. For instance, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), goods originating from Canada or Mexico may benefit from preferential duty rates, often Free, if they meet the rules of origin. Similarly, the European Union has numerous trade agreements with third countries that can reduce or eliminate duties on goods classified under 681520, provided they originate from the partner country and meet the agreement's criteria. Importers must ensure they have the necessary proof of origin documentation to claim preferential treatment.