HS 690210 Containing, by weight, singly or together, more than 50 % of the elements Mg, Ca or Cr, expressed as MgO, CaO or Cr2O3
Quick Answer: Refractory bricks and shapes imported under HS 690210 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 2.00% ad valorem, and the US with rates of Free, 30%, or Free depending on specific product details. This Harmonized System (HS) code specifically covers refractory bricks and articles thereof, designed for high-temperature applications, which contain, by weight, more than 50% of magnesium (expressed as MgO), calcium (expressed as CaO), or chromium (expressed as Cr2O3), singly or together. Importers should carefully verify the exact composition of their goods to ensure correct classification and duty application, as the US tariff schedule shows varied rates. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of precise documentation for compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6902100000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6902100000 | 2.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 690210 | — | — | — |
| 6902105000 | Free | — | ["t"] |
| 6902101000 | Free | — | ["thousands","t"] |
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 690210 cover?
This subheading covers refractory bricks, blocks, tiles, and similar refractory ceramic construction materials, which contain, by weight, singly or together, more than 50% of the elements magnesium (expressed as MgO), calcium (expressed as CaO), or chromium (expressed as Cr2O3). As per the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, these materials are specifically designed to withstand high temperatures and are crucial for lining furnaces, kilns, and other high-temperature industrial equipment. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm this composition-based classification.
What falls outside HS 690210?
The following products are excluded from HS 690210: refractory ceramic goods not meeting the 50% threshold for MgO, CaO, or Cr2O3 content, or those containing other refractory elements as the primary component. For instance, refractory bricks primarily composed of alumina (Al2O3) or silica (SiO2) would be classified under other subheadings within HS 6902, such as 690220 for those containing more than 50% alumina. Similarly, non-refractory ceramic tiles used for general construction or decoration are classified elsewhere in Chapter 69.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 690210?
A common error is misinterpreting the "expressed as" requirement, leading to incorrect calculations of the elemental content. Importers may fail to convert the weight of the elements to their oxide equivalents (MgO, CaO, Cr2O3) as specified in the HS. This can result in misclassifications, especially when dealing with complex refractory compositions. Furthermore, failing to consider the total weight percentage of these specific elements, singly or combined, can lead to placing products in the wrong subheading, potentially violating General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(a) or 3(b) if multiple components are present.
How should importers classify products under HS 690210?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 690210 involves obtaining a detailed chemical analysis of the refractory material. Importers and customs brokers must determine the precise weight percentage of magnesium, calcium, and chromium present and then convert these to their respective oxide forms (MgO, CaO, Cr2O3). The sum of these oxide percentages must exceed 50% for the product to fall under this subheading. Reviewing the product's technical data sheets and consulting with the manufacturer's technical department is essential for accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 690210?
A shipment of 10,000 kilograms of basic refractory bricks, primarily composed of magnesia (expressed as MgO at 65% by weight), declared at a customs value of $8,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $400. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($8,000 USD × 0.05 = $400). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for subheading 690210.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 690210?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 690210, 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. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) may also offer preferential rates for originating goods from member countries. Documentation required typically includes a USMCA Certificate of Origin or a self-certified origin statement for USMCA, and specific origin declarations for other agreements, depending on the importing jurisdiction's requirements.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What is the standard import duty for HS code 690210 in the United States?
The standard (MFN) import duty rate for HS code 690210, which covers refractory bricks, blocks, tiles and similar refractory ceramic constructional goods, containing, by weight, singly or together, more than 50% of the elements Mg, Ca or Cr, expressed as MgO, CaO or Cr2O3, is 3.5% ad valorem. This rate is applied to the declared customs value of the imported goods. For example, if goods valued at $10,000 are imported, the duty would be $10,000 * 0.035 = $350. This information is based on the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule.
Are there preferential duty rates available for HS code 690210 under trade agreements?
Preferential duty rates for HS code 690210 may be available under various trade agreements, such as the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) or other bilateral agreements. Importers must ensure that the goods meet the rules of origin specified in the relevant agreement and possess the necessary proof of origin documentation, such as a certificate of origin. For example, goods originating from Canada or Mexico under USMCA might qualify for a 0% duty rate, provided all requirements are met. Always consult the specific trade agreement and the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for current preferential rates and eligibility criteria.
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 690210?
The primary classification criteria for HS code 690210 are that the goods must be refractory ceramic constructional items (bricks, blocks, tiles, etc.) and must contain, by weight, more than 50% of the elements Magnesium (Mg), Calcium (Ca), or Chromium (Cr). This percentage is calculated based on the oxides MgO, CaO, or Cr2O3. Importers must provide laboratory analysis or manufacturer's specifications to substantiate the chemical composition. Goods not meeting this specific chemical threshold would be classified under different HS codes within Chapter 69.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods under HS code 690210?
Standard documentation for importing goods under HS code 690210 includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Crucially, to support the classification, importers should be prepared to provide a manufacturer's declaration or certificate of analysis detailing the chemical composition, specifically the percentage of MgO, CaO, or Cr2O3, to confirm it exceeds 50% by weight. If claiming preferential treatment under a trade agreement, a valid certificate of origin is also mandatory. Customs brokers play a vital role in ensuring all required documentation is accurate and complete.
How is the duty calculated for HS code 690210 if imported into the European Union?
In the European Union, the duty rate for HS code 690210 is typically 2.0% ad valorem, as per the TARIC database. This means the duty is calculated as a percentage of the customs value of the goods. For instance, if refractory bricks classified under 690210 are valued at €5,000, the import duty would be €5,000 * 0.020 = €100. Importers should always verify the most current TARIC code and associated duty rates, as these can be subject to change and may vary based on the country of origin and specific trade measures.