HS 701980 Glass wool and articles of glass wool
Quick Answer: Glass wool and articles thereof imported under HS 701980 enter the UK at rates up to 6.00%, the EU at rates up to 7.00%, and the US at rates up to 50% or duty-free for qualifying countries. This classification covers insulation materials and other products manufactured from glass fibers, typically used for thermal and acoustic purposes. Importers should be aware of potential anti-dumping duties in the US, which can significantly increase the landed cost. CustomTariffs aggregates this information to aid compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7019800000 | — | — | — |
| 7019801090 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 7019809010 | 6.00 % | — | — |
| 7019801000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
| 7019801020 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7019800000 | — | — | — |
| 7019801020 | 5.00 % | — | — |
| 7019801090 | 5.00 % | — | — |
| 7019809010 | 7.00 % | — | — |
| 7019801000 | 5.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 701980 | — | — | — |
| 7019801010 | — | — | ["m<sup>2</sup>","kg"] |
| 7019801090 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 70198010 | 4.9% | Free (18 programs) | — |
| 7019801020 | — | — | ["m<sup>2</sup>","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 7019.80?
Imports of Glass wool and articles of glass wool 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 16 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 701980 cover?
This subheading covers glass wool and articles thereof, specifically those not covered by more specific subheadings within heading 7019. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this includes materials manufactured from glass filaments, spun into wool-like fibers, and typically used for thermal or acoustic insulation. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database confirm that this category encompasses bulk glass wool, mats, and boards formed from this material, provided they are not further processed into specific articles classified elsewhere.
What falls outside HS 701980?
The following products are excluded from HS 701980: glass fibers themselves (classified under 7019.10), woven fabrics of glass fibers (7019.40), and other fabrics of glass fibers (7019.50). Also excluded are glass mosaics (7019.90) and articles of glass wool that have undergone significant further manufacturing, such as pre-formed insulation for pipes or specific building components, which may fall under other headings depending on their final form and function. For instance, glass wool insulation with a facing of aluminum foil would be classified based on the composite nature.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 701980?
A common error is misclassifying composite articles where glass wool is a component but not the primary defining material, or where another material imparts the essential character. For example, a rigid board with a glass wool core and a decorative facing might be incorrectly classified under 701980 instead of a heading for composite building materials. Adherence to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b) for composite goods, which states classification is based on the material or component that gives them their essential character, is crucial to avoid such mistakes.
How should importers classify products under HS 701980?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 701980 involves a thorough examination of the product's composition and intended use. Importers and customs brokers should consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, and review the Explanatory Notes for heading 7019. It is essential to determine if the product is indeed glass wool or an article made from it, and if it is not specifically covered by a more precise subheading within 7019. Obtaining a binding ruling from customs authorities is advisable for complex cases.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 701980?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of glass wool insulation mats, declared at a customs value of $2,500 USD, would attract a US duty of $125.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value. The calculation is: 5.0% × $2,500 USD = $125.00. This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) under subheading 701980.0000 for products not specified elsewhere.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 701980?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 701980, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for originating goods from Canada and Mexico. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) also offers preferential rates, potentially Free, for originating goods from member countries like Vietnam. To claim these preferences, a valid USMCA Certificate of Origin or a CPTPP Certificate of Origin is typically required, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 701980 (Glass wool and articles of glass wool)?
Import duty rates for HS code 701980 can vary significantly by country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 4.0% ad valorem. In the European Union, the TARIC system may show rates around 6.0% ad valorem, subject to specific product variations. The UK Trade Tariff also lists rates, often around 4.0% ad valorem. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate applicable to your shipment.
How is the import duty for glass wool calculated under HS 701980?
Import duties are typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if glass wool valued at $10,000 is imported into the United States, and the MFN duty rate is 4.0%, the duty would be $10,000 \times 0.04 = $400. Some countries may also apply specific duties (per unit) or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties. Always verify the calculation basis with the importing country's customs authority.
What preferential duty rates are available for HS code 701980 under trade agreements?
Many trade agreements offer preferential duty rates, often resulting in duty-free entry or reduced rates for goods originating from partner countries. For instance, under the US HTS, goods originating from countries like Australia (AU), Canada (CA), Mexico (MX), or South Korea (KR) may benefit from reduced or zero duty rates if they meet the rules of origin for agreements like USMCA or other bilateral pacts. Importers must possess valid proof of origin documentation to claim these preferential rates. Always check the specific trade agreement and its rules of origin.
What documentation is typically required for importing glass wool (HS 701980)?
Standard import documentation for HS 701980 generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the specific product, additional documents may be required. This could include a certificate of origin to claim preferential treatment, safety data sheets (SDS) if the glass wool contains hazardous components, or specific import licenses. Manufacturers' declarations confirming compliance with national standards (e.g., fire safety, insulation performance) might also be necessary.
Are there specific classification criteria that distinguish glass wool articles under HS 701980 from other glass products?
Yes, HS code 701980 specifically covers 'glass wool and articles of glass wool.' Glass wool is characterized by its fibrous structure, typically produced by melting glass and then spinning or blowing it into fine filaments. Articles of glass wool include products manufactured from this material, such as mats, blankets, panels, or even finished insulation products. The key distinction from other glass products (e.g., flat glass, glass containers) lies in the manufacturing process and the resulting fibrous form of the glass.