HS 701820 Glass microspheres not exceeding 1 mm in diameter
Quick Answer: Glass microspheres not exceeding 1 mm in diameter imported under HS 701820 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 3.00% ad valorem, and the US at 5.00% ad valorem, with preferential rates available for certain trading partners. This classification covers tiny, spherical glass particles, often used as fillers, reflective elements, or in specialized industrial applications. Importers should be aware of potential variations in preferential duty rates for the US market. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying specific origin-based duty entitlements.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7018200000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7018200000 | 3.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7018200000 | 5% | Free (17 programs) | ["kg"] |
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 7018.20?
Imports of Glass microspheres not exceeding 1 mm in diameter 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, and 15 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 701820 cover?
This subheading covers glass microspheres with a diameter not exceeding 1 millimeter. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, these are typically solid glass beads, often spherical in shape, manufactured to precise size specifications. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the European Union's TARIC database confirm that this category includes such items when their individual diameter is less than or equal to 1 mm, regardless of their intended application, such as in reflective paints or as fillers.
What falls outside HS 701820?
The following products are excluded from HS 701820: glass beads with a diameter exceeding 1 millimeter, which are typically classified under HS 701810. Also excluded are hollow glass spheres, which fall under HS 701890. Furthermore, glass powders or granules that are not specifically microspheres, or those with irregular shapes, would not be classified here. For instance, crushed glass or glass frit intended for industrial processes would likely be classified elsewhere based on their specific form and composition.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 701820?
A common error is misinterpreting the "not exceeding 1 mm in diameter" criterion, leading to the classification of larger glass beads under this subheading. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Importers may also mistakenly classify glass powders or irregular glass particles as microspheres, failing to adhere to the specific spherical shape requirement of this code.
How should importers classify products under HS 701820?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 701820 involves a two-step process: first, confirm that the product consists of glass microspheres. Second, verify that the diameter of each individual sphere does not exceed 1 millimeter. Importers and customs brokers should consult product specifications, manufacturer data sheets, and potentially request laboratory analysis to confirm these critical parameters before declaring the goods to customs.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 701820?
A shipment of 100 kilograms of glass microspheres for road marking, declared at a customs value of $500 USD, would attract a US duty of $35.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 7.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($500 USD × 0.07 = $35.00). This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule under HTS code 701820.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 701820?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 701820, 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 UK Global Tariff may also offer preferential rates for goods from certain countries. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a valid Certificate of Origin or a self-certified origin declaration, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction, such as a USMCA declaration for goods from Mexico.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 701820 (Glass microspheres not exceeding 1 mm in diameter)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 701820 is typically 3.00% ad valorem in the United States. However, preferential duty rates may apply under various trade agreements. For example, under the Free Trade Agreement between the US and Australia (AU), the duty rate is Free. Importers should always verify the applicable duty rate based on the country of origin and any relevant trade agreements. Consult the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS) for the most current and specific rates.
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 701820?
The primary classification criterion for HS code 701820 is that the goods must be glass microspheres. Crucially, these microspheres must not exceed 1 mm in diameter. If the glass spheres are larger than 1 mm, they would be classified under a different HS code, likely within heading 7018 for "Glass beads, imitation pearls, imitation precious stones and similar glass smallwares, and articles thereof; glass eyes other than optical appliances; ornaments of glass; glassware of a kind used for laboratory, hygienic or pharmaceutical purposes, with a working temperature in the last-mentioned glassware exceeding 600 °C; glass microspheres not exceeding 1 mm in diameter."
How is the import duty for HS 701820 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The import duty for HS code 701820 is generally calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it is a percentage of the declared value of the goods. For instance, if the MFN duty rate is 3.00% and an importer brings in 100 kg of glass microspheres valued at $500 USD, the duty calculation would be: Duty = Value × Duty Rate. In this example: Duty = $500 USD × 3.00% = $15.00 USD. If the goods are subject to a specific duty (e.g., per unit), the calculation would be based on that rate and quantity. Always refer to the official tariff schedule for the precise calculation method.
What documentation is typically required when importing goods under HS code 701820?
When importing goods classified under HS code 701820, standard import documentation is generally required. This includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the glass microspheres; a packing list; and a bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the country of origin and the importer's specific circumstances, a certificate of origin may be necessary to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. Customs brokers should ensure all documentation accurately reflects the product's specifications, particularly its size (not exceeding 1 mm in diameter) to support the HS classification.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 701820 into the United States?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for HS code 701820 into the United States. For example, goods originating from Australia (AU) may enter duty-free under the US-Australia Free Trade Agreement. Other agreements, such as those with Chile (CL), Singapore (SG), and South Korea (KR), may also offer reduced or duty-free entry. Importers must ensure the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in each specific trade agreement and provide the necessary proof of origin, such as a certificate of origin, to qualify for these preferential rates. Always consult the latest USHTS or relevant trade agreement text for confirmation.