HS 700800 Coloured throughout the mass (body tinted), opacified, flashed or having an absorbent or reflecting layer
Quick Answer: Glass of subheading 7008.00 enters the UK duty-free, the EU at 3.00% ad valorem, and the US with a range of rates including Free and up to 50% ad valorem depending on origin. This classification applies to glass that is colored throughout its mass, rendered opaque, flashed (layered with another color), or treated with an absorbent or reflecting layer. Such glass is typically used for decorative purposes, in lighting, or for specialized optical applications. Importers should consult specific origin-based duty rates for the US and confirm the exact product description against the EU's TARIC or UK Trade Tariff for precise application. CustomTariffs aggregates this data for trade professionals.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7008002000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7008008900 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7008008100 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7008002000 | 3.00 % | — | — |
| 7008008900 | 3.00 % | — | — |
| 7008008100 | 3.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7008000000 | 3.9% | Free (17 programs) | ["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 7008.00?
Imports of Coloured throughout the mass (body tinted), opacified, flashed or having an absorbent or reflecting layer 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 to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 700800 cover?
This subheading covers glass, including cellular glass in blocks, slabs, panels and similar forms, which is coloured throughout the mass (body tinted), opacified, flashed, or has an absorbent or reflecting layer applied. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, this includes glass treated to alter its optical properties or appearance through the incorporation of coloring agents, opacifying agents, or by the application of metallic or other thin films to one or both surfaces, enhancing its reflectivity or absorption characteristics.
What falls outside HS 700800?
The following products are excluded from HS 700800: plain uncoloured glass, glass that is merely surface-treated without altering its fundamental optical properties (e.g., polished or ground glass), and glass with decorative patterns applied by painting or enamelling that do not constitute an opacifying or reflecting layer. For instance, decorative stained glass or glass with printed designs would typically be classified elsewhere based on the nature of the decoration and the base glass type.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 700800?
A common error is misinterpreting the term "flashed" or failing to distinguish between body tinting and surface decoration. General Interpretative Rule (GIR) 3(b) for mixtures and composite goods may also be relevant if the glass is part of a more complex product. Importers may incorrectly classify glass with a mere surface coating as opacified or flashed, when the treatment is purely decorative or protective without fundamentally altering the glass's optical properties as defined by the WCO.
How should importers classify products under HS 700800?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 700800 involves a thorough examination of the glass's manufacturing process and its final characteristics. Importers and customs brokers must determine if the glass is inherently coloured throughout the mass, opacified, flashed, or possesses an absorbent or reflecting layer. Consulting technical specifications, manufacturer declarations, and the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) or the EU TARIC database, is crucial for accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 700800?
A specific product, such as a 1 square meter panel of body-tinted reflective glass weighing 25 kg and declared at a customs value of $150 USD, would attract a US duty. Assuming a Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 4.5% ad valorem, the duty would be calculated as 4.5% of $150 USD, resulting in a duty of $6.75 USD. This calculation is based on the ad valorem rate applied to the declared customs value, as published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 700800?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 700800, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating glass products from Canada and Mexico can enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preference, a valid USMCA certification of origin is required. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or free entry for originating goods from certain developing countries, typically requiring a GSP Form A.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 700800, and how are they calculated?
HS code 700800, which covers 'Glass of Chapter 70, in case of multiple panes, insulating', generally has low Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates in major markets. For example, the U.S. MFN rate is 0.00%. The EU TARIC system shows a rate of 3.9% ad valorem for certain types of insulating glass under this code. The UK Trade Tariff also lists rates, often around 3.00% ad valorem for non-preferential imports. Duty calculation is typically ad valorem, meaning a percentage of the declared value of the goods. For instance, if importing goods valued at $10,000 with a 3.9% ad valorem duty rate, the duty would be $10,000 * 0.039 = $390.00.
What specific criteria define 'insulating glass' under HS code 700800, and how does this differ from other glass types?
HS code 700800 specifically applies to multiple panes of glass that are assembled to form an insulating unit. The key characteristic is the sealed space between the panes, which is typically filled with air or an inert gas (like argon or krypton) to reduce heat transfer. This distinguishes it from single panes of glass (Chapter 70, headings 7003-7007) or laminated/tempered glass (heading 7006). The construction must be designed for thermal insulation purposes.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 700800, and what documentation is needed to claim them?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for HS code 700800. For example, under the U.S. Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), many developing countries can import goods duty-free. The EU has numerous Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and Association Agreements that may reduce or eliminate duties. The UK also has a wide range of preferential trade agreements. To claim preferential treatment, importers and customs brokers must provide a valid Certificate of Origin (COO) or a declaration of origin from the exporter, demonstrating that the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement. Specific requirements vary by agreement, so consulting the official customs authority of the importing country is crucial.
Are there any specific documentation requirements beyond a Certificate of Origin for importing insulating glass under HS code 700800?
Beyond a Certificate of Origin for preferential duty claims, importers and customs brokers should ensure they have a commercial invoice, a packing list, and a bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country's regulations and the specific product, additional documentation might be required. This could include product specifications confirming the insulating properties, safety certifications, or declarations of conformity to local standards. It is advisable to check the importing country's customs regulations or consult with a customs broker for a comprehensive list.
How does the construction of the glass unit (e.g., gas-filled, low-E coating) affect its classification under HS code 700800 and potential duty rates?
The construction of the glass unit is central to its classification under HS code 700800. The code itself covers 'multiple panes, insulating'. If the unit is filled with inert gas (like argon or krypton) or features a low-emissivity (Low-E) coating applied to one of the internal surfaces to enhance thermal performance, it still falls under 700800 as a type of insulating glass. These features are considered part of the insulating construction. Duty rates generally remain consistent for the code itself, but the specific value of the enhanced product will influence the ad valorem duty calculation. For example, a $12,000 unit with a Low-E coating and gas fill, subject to a 3.9% duty, would incur $12,000 * 0.039 = $468.00 in duties.