HS 690490 Other
Quick Answer: Ceramic building materials imported under HS 690490 enter the UK at 2.00%, the EU at 2.00%, and the US with a range of rates including Free and 30%. This residual classification applies to ceramic bricks, paving blocks, and similar articles not specifically covered by other headings within Chapter 69. It is crucial for importers and customs brokers to verify the precise classification and applicable duty rates for their specific product, as the US tariff, in particular, shows significant variation. According to CustomTariffs data, careful attention to product specifications is essential to avoid potential classification disputes and ensure accurate duty payments across different trading blocs.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6904900000 | 2.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6904900000 | 2.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6904900000 | Free | — | ["thousands"] |
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 690490 cover?
This subheading covers ceramic building materials not specifically enumerated in heading 6904, excluding those classified under 6904.10 (bricks) and 6904.90 (tiles). According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, this category encompasses a variety of ceramic items used in construction, such as ceramic blocks, ceramic pipes, and ceramic fittings, provided they are not otherwise specified. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm this broad inclusion for "other" ceramic construction materials.
What falls outside HS 690490?
The following products are excluded from HS 690490: ceramic bricks (classified under 6904.10), ceramic tiles (which fall under heading 6907 or 6908 depending on whether they are glazed or unglazed), and ceramic sanitary ware (heading 6910). Also excluded are refractory ceramic goods (Chapter 69, Note 1(a)) and ceramic articles for technical uses (Chapter 69, Note 1(b)). For instance, ceramic insulators for electrical equipment are not classified here but under 8546.20.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 690490?
A common error is misclassifying ceramic tiles or bricks under this subheading when they should be classified in their specific headings (6904.10 for bricks, 6907/6908 for tiles). This often occurs due to a misunderstanding of the scope of heading 6904 and its subheadings, or by not applying General Interpretative Rule 3(a) of the Harmonized System, which states that the heading providing the most specific description shall be preferred. Importers may also mistakenly include ceramic articles for non-building purposes.
How should importers classify products under HS 690490?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 690490 involves a thorough review of the product's material composition, intended use, and physical characteristics. Importers must first consult the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for heading 6904 and then examine the specific national tariff schedules, such as the USITC HTS or EU TARIC, for any further subdivisions or specific inclusions. Comparing the product against the descriptions for 6904.10 (bricks) and 6907/6908 (tiles) is crucial to ensure it is indeed an "other" ceramic building material.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 690490?
A shipment of 1,000 ceramic drainage pipes, each weighing 5 kg, with a total declared customs value of $2,500 USD, would attract a US duty of $125.00. Assuming a Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem for such pipes under the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS 690490), the calculation is 5.0% of $2,500 USD, which equals $125.00. This is calculated using the ad valorem rate applied to the declared customs value.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 690490?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 690490, 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. For goods originating from certain developing countries under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), the duty rate can also be Free. Documentation required typically includes a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries, depending on the specific jurisdiction and agreement.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 690490?
HS code 690490, covering 'Other' ceramic building materials, has varying duty rates depending on the importing country. For instance, the U.S. Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 2.00% ad valorem. In the European Union, the TARIC system shows a rate of 2.00% ad valorem. The UK Trade Tariff lists this code as Free for goods originating in the EU and EFTA countries, but a standard rate of 30% ad valorem applies to goods from other countries. Always verify the specific rate for your country of import and origin of goods.
How is the import duty for HS code 690490 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty is typically calculated as a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods (ad valorem). For example, if you import ceramic building materials classified under HS 690490 into the U.S. with a declared value of $10,000 and the MFN duty rate is 2.00%, the import duty would be $10,000 * 0.02 = $200. If the duty were based on a specific rate (e.g., per unit), the calculation would be rate per unit × number of units.
What criteria determine if ceramic building materials fall under HS code 690490 ('Other')?
HS code 690490 is a residual category for ceramic building materials not specifically listed in other subheadings of 6904. This typically includes items like ceramic tiles, bricks, and blocks that are primarily used for construction purposes but do not fit into more specific classifications within Chapter 69. Classification relies on the material (ceramic), intended use (building/construction), and absence of a more precise HS code. Consult the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System for detailed guidance.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods under HS code 690490?
Standard import documentation for HS code 690490 includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the specific product, you may also need a certificate of origin to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. Some countries may require specific product safety or quality certifications for ceramic building materials. Always check the specific import requirements of the destination country.
How do trade agreements, such as USMCA or EU trade deals, affect the duty rates for HS code 690490?
Trade agreements can significantly reduce or eliminate import duties for goods like those classified under HS 690490. For example, goods originating from countries with preferential trade agreements with the importing nation may qualify for reduced or duty-free entry. To benefit, importers must provide a valid Certificate of Origin demonstrating that the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the agreement. For instance, goods imported into the UK from EU countries under the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement are typically duty-free.