HS 701010 Ampoules
Quick Answer: Ampoules imported under HS 701010 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 3.00% ad valorem, and the US at 50¢ per gross. This Harmonized System code specifically covers glass ampoules, which are small, sealed glass vials used for the sterile storage of liquid medicines or other substances. Importers should be aware of these varying duty rates across major markets. For example, while the UK offers duty-free entry, the EU imposes a specific ad valorem tariff. The US rate is a specific duty per gross. CustomTariffs aggregates this information to assist trade professionals in navigating these international trade requirements.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7010100000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7010100000 | 3.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7010100000 | Free | — | ["gross"] |
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 701010 cover?
This subheading covers ampoules, which are small, sealed glass vials typically used for the packaging of pharmaceutical preparations or other sterile liquids. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, these are glass containers of a kind used for the packing of medicines. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm this scope, focusing on their primary function as single-dose containers for sterile substances, often characterized by a narrow neck that is fused shut.
What falls outside HS 701010?
The following products are excluded from HS 701010: glass bottles of a kind used for the packing of medicines that are not ampoules, such as larger vials or dropper bottles, and glass containers not specifically designed for sterile pharmaceutical packaging. For instance, laboratory glassware, decorative glass vials, or industrial chemical containers, even if made of glass and sealed, would be classified under different headings based on their specific use and construction, following General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 701010?
A common error is misclassifying larger glass vials or bottles intended for medicinal use but not meeting the specific definition of an ampoule. Ampoules are characterized by their small size and the method of sealing (fused neck). Items that are screw-capped or stoppered, even if for pharmaceuticals, would typically fall under other headings within Chapter 70 or elsewhere, depending on their specific characteristics and intended use, deviating from the strict interpretation of GRI 3(b) for composite goods or GRI 1 for primary function.
How should importers classify products under HS 701010?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 701010 involves verifying that the glass container is a small, sealed vial designed for the single-dose packaging of sterile substances, particularly pharmaceuticals. Importers and customs brokers should consult the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, and review the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System for definitive guidance, ensuring the product's physical characteristics and intended use align with the subheading's description.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 701010?
A shipment of 10,000 glass ampoules, each weighing 10 grams and declared at a customs value of $500 USD, would attract a US duty of $12.50. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 2.5% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($500 USD × 0.025 = $12.50). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 7010.10.00.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 701010?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 701010, 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 the United Kingdom, preferential rates may be available under the UK-US Free Trade Agreement (if enacted) or similar bilateral agreements, potentially leading to a Free duty rate. Documentation typically required includes a USMCA Certificate of Origin or a UK origin declaration.
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 701010 (Ampoules) into the United States?
Under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (USHTS), ampoules of glass, of a kind used for the conveyance or packing of pharmaceutical products, fall under HS code 7010.10. The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is Free. However, importers should always verify current duty rates on the US International Trade Commission (USITC) website, as these can change. For example, if importing 10,000 ampoules valued at $0.10 each, the total value is $1,000. With a Free MFN rate, the calculated duty would be $0.00.
Are there specific classification criteria for HS code 701010 beyond just being an ampoule?
Yes, HS code 7010.10 specifically covers ampoules of glass designed for the conveyance or packing of pharmaceutical products. This means the primary intended use is crucial. Ampoules for other uses, such as laboratory sampling or decorative items, may be classified under different headings. Importers must ensure the ampoules meet the definition and intended use criteria to correctly use this code. Referencing Explanatory Notes from the World Customs Organization (WCO) can provide further clarification on the scope of this heading.
What documentation is typically required when importing ampoules under HS code 701010 into the EU?
When importing ampoules (HS code 7010.10) into the European Union, standard customs documentation is required, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the origin and any preferential trade agreements, an EUR.1 movement certificate or proof of origin may be necessary to claim reduced or zero duty rates under the EU's TARIC system. For pharmaceutical-related ampoules, additional declarations or certifications regarding their suitability for pharmaceutical use might be requested by customs authorities to ensure compliance with relevant regulations.
How are duties calculated for HS code 701010 if a specific trade agreement offers a preferential rate?
The calculation method depends on the specific duty rate applied. For example, if an ampoule is subject to a specific rate like '50¢/gross' (per 144 units) and a preferential agreement grants a reduced rate of '25¢/gross', the duty would be calculated based on the number of gross units imported. If the rate were an ad valorem percentage (e.g., 3.0%), the duty would be a percentage of the declared customs value. For instance, importing 5 gross (720 units) of ampoules with a 25¢/gross preferential rate would result in a duty of 5 gross * $0.25/gross = $1.25. Always consult the relevant customs authority's tariff schedule (e.g., UK Trade Tariff for the UK) for the exact preferential rates and calculation rules applicable to your trade partner.