HS 690590 Other
Quick Answer: Ceramic building materials, not elsewhere specified, imported under HS 690590 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00%, and the US with rates varying from 3.2% to 30% ad valorem, with certain trade agreements providing duty-free entry. This classification applies to ceramic products used in construction that do not fit into more specific headings within Chapter 69 of the Harmonized System. Importers should consult specific trade agreements for US duty rates. According to CustomTariffs data, careful classification is crucial to leverage preferential rates and avoid unexpected duties.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6905900000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6905900000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 69059000 | 3.2% | Free (17 programs) | — |
| 6905900010 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 6905900050 | — | — | ["No."] |
Special rates available under trade agreements including USMCA, KORUS, GSP.
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.
Which Trade Agreements Reduce Duties for HS 6905.90?
Imports of Other may qualify for reduced or zero duty rates under free trade agreements and preferential programs. The overview below shows available preferential arrangements by jurisdiction, compiled by HSRates from official tariff and trade agreement data.
United States (HTSUS)
Free for USMCA, KORUS, GSP, and 14 other programs
European Union (TARIC)
Preferential rate data not yet available.
United Kingdom
Preferential rate data not yet available.
Preferential rates require proof of origin and may be subject to quotas or conditions. Always verify eligibility with a licensed customs broker.
Data compiled by HSRates.
Which Preferential Rates Apply to Your Origin Country?
Select an origin country to see if preferential rates apply.
Preferential rates based on available trade agreements. Actual rates may vary.
How Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 690590 cover?
This subheading covers ceramic building materials not specifically enumerated in heading 6905, which includes other ceramic roofing tiles, chimney pots, finials, and similar structural ceramic wares. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and definitions found in official tariff schedules like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database, this category is for items that are primarily used in construction and are made from fired clay or other ceramic materials, but do not fit into more specific subheadings within heading 6905.
What falls outside HS 690590?
The following products are excluded from HS 690590: ceramic wares of a purely ornamental nature (Chapter 69, Note 3), ceramic wares for laboratory, chemical, or similar purposes (Chapter 69, Note 4), and ceramic sanitary ware (heading 6910). For instance, decorative ceramic tiles intended for interior wall embellishment, even if structurally similar, would be classified elsewhere, as would ceramic laboratory crucibles or ceramic pipes for drainage systems, which fall under different headings based on their specific function and material composition.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 690590?
A common error is misclassifying ceramic products based solely on their appearance rather than their intended use and material characteristics, contrary to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1. For example, importers might incorrectly classify decorative ceramic elements intended for architectural finishing under 690590 when they should be classified as ornamental articles. Conversely, structural ceramic components that are not explicitly listed in other subheadings of 6905 may be erroneously placed in more specific categories if their primary function as building materials is overlooked.
How should importers classify products under HS 690590?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 690590 involves a thorough examination of the product's material composition, manufacturing process, and intended use. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official Explanatory Notes of the Harmonized System and the specific tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC. This process includes verifying that the item is indeed a ceramic structural component for building and is not covered by a more specific heading or subheading within Chapter 69.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 690590?
A shipment of 1,000 units of unglazed, interlocking ceramic roof tiles weighing 2.5 kg per unit, with a declared customs value of $1,500 USD, would attract a US duty of $150.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 10% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($1,500 USD × 0.10 = $150.00). This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 6905.90.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 690590?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 690590. For instance, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), originating goods may be admitted duty-free. Similarly, the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) can offer preferential rates. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement or a certificate of origin, depending on the specific agreement and the exporting country, such as Canada, Mexico, or Vietnam.
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 690590, and how do preferential rates apply?
HS code 690590 covers 'Other' ceramic building materials not specified elsewhere in heading 6905. The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for this classification can vary significantly by country. For example, the United States applies a 30% ad valorem duty. However, preferential rates under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) can reduce or eliminate these duties. For instance, goods originating from countries like Australia (AU), Canada (CA), Chile (CL), South Korea (KR), or Singapore (SG) may benefit from duty-free entry under specific FTAs, provided all rules of origin are met. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country and verify the origin of the goods to determine applicable preferential rates.
What criteria determine if a ceramic building material falls under HS code 690590 ('Other')?
HS code 690590 is a residual category. Ceramic building materials are classified under heading 6905 if they are primarily used in construction. This includes items like roof tiles, chimney pots, and similar structural ceramic goods. If a ceramic building material does not fit the specific descriptions within heading 6905 (e.g., 6905.10 for chimney pots and similar structures), it is classified under 6905.90 as 'Other'. The key is that the item must be a ceramic product and intended for building or construction purposes. Items not meeting these criteria would likely be classified elsewhere.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 690590?
When importing goods under HS code 690590, standard customs documentation is required. This includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list; and a bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the specific product, a certificate of origin may be necessary to claim preferential duty rates. Some countries may also require product-specific certifications or compliance declarations to ensure the goods meet safety and quality standards for building materials. It is crucial to check the specific import regulations of the destination country.
How is the import duty for HS code 690590 calculated, and can you provide an example?
Import duty for HS code 690590 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if the United States applies a 30% ad valorem duty rate and you import ceramic tiles valued at $10,000 USD, the duty calculation would be: $10,000 (Value) × 30% (Duty Rate) = $3,000 USD (Duty Amount). Some countries might also have specific duties based on weight or quantity in addition to, or instead of, ad valorem duties. Always confirm the applicable duty calculation method and rate with the importing country's customs authority.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 690590, and what is the general impact?
Several trade agreements can impact the duty rates for HS code 690590. For example, agreements like the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), CAFTA-DR (Dominican Republic-Central America Free Trade Agreement), and various bilateral FTAs the US has with countries like Chile, South Korea, and Australia, often provide for reduced or zero duty rates on eligible goods. The general impact is a significant reduction in the landed cost of imports, making trade more competitive. To benefit, importers must ensure the goods meet the relevant rules of origin stipulated in each agreement and provide the necessary proof of origin, such as a certificate of origin.