HS 711230 Ash containing precious metal or precious-metal compounds
Quick Answer: Ash containing precious metal or precious-metal compounds imported under HS 711230 enters the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00%, and the US at Free under the MFN rate. This classification specifically covers residues and ashes, whether or not containing precious metals or precious-metal compounds, that are intended for further recovery of these valuable materials. This includes materials like spent catalysts, electronic scrap, and other industrial waste from which precious metals can be extracted. Importers and customs brokers should note that while duty rates are currently favorable across these major markets, specific import regulations regarding the handling and declaration of hazardous or valuable waste materials may still apply. CustomTariffs aggregates this duty information for trade facilitation.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7112300000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7112300000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7112300100 | Free | — | ["kg"] |
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 to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 711230 cover?
This subheading covers ash and residues containing precious metal or precious-metal compounds, as defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature. This includes materials derived from the incineration of precious-metal-bearing waste, such as electronic scrap, spent catalysts, or dental alloys, where the primary value lies in the recoverable precious metals like gold, silver, platinum, or palladium. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that the key criterion is the presence and recovery potential of precious metals.
What falls outside HS 711230?
The following products are excluded from HS 711230: ash and residues that do not contain precious metals or their compounds, such as general industrial ash or municipal waste ash. Also excluded are precious metals or precious-metal compounds in refined forms, such as pure gold bars or silver powder, which would be classified under other headings within Chapter 71. Waste and scrap of precious metal or of metal clad with precious metal, not otherwise specified, would also fall under different classifications, typically within heading 7112.90.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 711230?
A common error is misclassifying ash or residues that contain only base metals or insignificant amounts of precious metals. According to General Interpretative Rule 1 of the Harmonized System, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Importers may incorrectly classify materials based on their appearance rather than their chemical composition and the presence of recoverable precious metals, leading to incorrect duty payments. For instance, ash from general incineration without precious metal content should not be classified here.
How should importers classify products under HS 711230?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 711230 involves a thorough analysis of the material's composition. Importers and customs brokers must obtain detailed assay reports or certificates of analysis that quantify the precious metal content. This documentation should clearly identify the specific precious metals present and their percentages. Cross-referencing these findings with the WCO HS Explanatory Notes and relevant national tariff schedules, such as the UK Trade Tariff, is crucial to confirm that the material meets the criteria for ash containing precious metals.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 711230?
A shipment of 100 kilograms of electronic scrap ash, declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD, containing 50 grams of gold, would attract a US duty. Assuming a Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 2.5% ad valorem for a similar material (though specific rates for this exact composition can vary and require detailed analysis), the duty would be calculated as 2.5% of $5,000, resulting in a duty of $125.00. This calculation is based on the declared value and the rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 711230?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 711230, 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. Additionally, preferential rates may be available under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) for goods from designated developing countries, potentially offering a Free duty rate. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 711230, 'Ash containing precious metal or precious-metal compounds'?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 711230 is typically 0.00% ad valorem in many major trading blocs, including the United States and the European Union. For instance, under the EU's TARIC system, this code often carries a 0.00% duty. Similarly, the UK Trade Tariff also lists a 0.00% duty. It is crucial for importers to verify the specific duty rate applicable in their destination country at the time of import, as rates can be subject to change or specific national variations.
What specific criteria determine if ash falls under HS code 711230?
HS code 711230 covers ash and residues that contain precious metals (such as gold, silver, platinum, palladium, rhodium, ruthenium, iridium, and osmium) or their compounds. The key classification criterion is the presence and quantifiable amount of these precious metals or their compounds within the ash or residue. The material must be a byproduct or waste from processes involving precious metals, and it must retain a sufficient concentration of these metals to be economically recoverable. Importers should ensure their documentation clearly states the precious metal content.
What documentation is typically required for importing ash containing precious metals under HS 711230?
Importing ash containing precious metals under HS code 711230 usually requires specific documentation to comply with customs regulations and precious metals controls. This typically includes a detailed commercial invoice, a packing list, and a bill of lading or air waybill. Crucially, a certificate of analysis or assay report is essential, specifying the type and exact quantity or percentage of precious metals present in the ash. Depending on the country of import, additional permits or declarations related to the handling and trade of precious metals may be necessary.
How is the import duty for HS 711230 calculated, and can you provide an example?
Since the duty rate for HS code 711230 is often 0.00% ad valorem, the calculated duty amount is typically zero. However, if a specific country or trade agreement were to impose a duty, the calculation would be based on the declared value of the goods. For example, if the duty rate were 3.5% ad valorem and the declared value of the ash containing precious metals was $10,000, the duty would be calculated as: 3.5% of $10,000 = $350. In most cases, however, the duty is $0.00.
Do trade agreements, such as Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), typically offer preferential duty rates for HS code 711230?
Given that the standard MFN duty rate for HS code 711230 is frequently 0.00% in many major economies, preferential duty rates under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) may not always result in a further reduction from zero. However, FTAs can still offer benefits such as simplified customs procedures, reduced administrative burdens, and potentially lower rates for associated fees or taxes. Importers should consult the specific FTA between the exporting and importing countries to confirm any applicable preferential treatment or origin requirements for this HS code.