HS 711420 Of base metal clad with precious metal
Quick Answer: Articles of base metal clad with precious metal imported under HS 711420 enter the UK at 2.00%, the EU at 2.00%, and the US at a general rate of 3%. This classification covers items such as jewelry, tableware, and other finished goods where a base metal (like copper, nickel, or iron) is covered or plated with a precious metal (gold, silver, or platinum). Importers should be aware of potential preferential duty rates in the US for countries with Free Trade Agreements, as indicated by CustomTariffs data. Careful documentation is crucial to substantiate the base metal and precious metal components for accurate classification and duty assessment.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7114200000 | 2.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7114200000 | 2.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7114200060 | — | — | ["g"] |
| 71142000 | 3% | Free (17 programs) | — |
| 7114200040 | — | — | ["g"] |
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 7114.20?
Imports of Of base metal clad with precious metal 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 711420 cover?
This subheading covers articles of goldsmiths' or silversmiths' wares and other articles of precious metal or of metal clad with precious metal, specifically those made of base metal clad with precious metal. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this includes items where a base metal forms the primary structure and is covered by a layer of gold, silver, or platinum-group metals. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that the precious metal layer must be integral to the article's construction, not merely a plating applied for decorative purposes without structural contribution.
What falls outside HS 711420?
The following products are excluded from HS 711420: articles made entirely of precious metal, which are classified under other headings within Chapter 71; articles of base metal plated with precious metal where the precious metal is a superficial coating applied for aesthetic reasons and does not contribute to the article's structure; and articles of base metal that are merely colored or treated to resemble precious metal. For instance, a base metal bracelet with a thin gold-colored plating would likely not meet the "clad with precious metal" requirement, and a solid gold necklace would be classified elsewhere.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 711420?
A common error is misinterpreting the term "clad with precious metal." Importers may incorrectly classify articles with a very thin electroplated layer of precious metal under this subheading, when such plating might be considered superficial and not integral to the base metal structure. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b) for the interpretation of the Harmonized System, classification is often determined by the essential character of the good, which in this case is the combination of base metal and precious metal cladding. Confusion also arises with articles that are merely gilded or silvered.
How should importers classify products under HS 711420?
The correct procedure for classifying articles under HS 711420 involves a thorough examination of the article's composition and construction. Importers and customs brokers must ascertain if the article is primarily made of base metal and is then clad with a layer of precious metal. This requires understanding the manufacturing process and the relative proportions and functions of the base metal and the precious metal cladding. Reviewing technical specifications, product literature, and potentially seeking laboratory analysis can provide the necessary evidence to ensure accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 711420?
A set of 10 silver-plated brass candlesticks, each weighing 0.5 kg, declared at a customs value of $500 USD, would attract a US duty of $150.00. Assuming a Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 30% ad valorem applied to the declared value, the calculation is 30% of $500 USD, resulting in $150.00. This is calculated using the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for articles of base metal clad with precious metal, which can vary significantly based on the specific precious metal and article type.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 711420?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 711420, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating articles may be eligible for a preferential rate of Free. Top originating countries that benefit from such agreements for this category include Mexico and Canada. To claim preference under USMCA, a self-certified origin statement on the commercial invoice or a separate certificate of origin is typically required, depending on the value and specific circumstances.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 711420, covering articles of base metal clad with precious metal?
Import duty rates for HS code 711420 can vary significantly by country. For example, under the United States Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS), the General Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 2.00% ad valorem. However, preferential rates under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) can be lower or even free. For instance, rates can range from 2.00% (e.g., US MFN) to 3% (e.g., Canada), and in some cases, free for countries like Australia (AU), Chile (CL), South Korea (KR), and Singapore (SG) under specific trade agreements. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the applicable rate based on the origin of the goods. The USITC (United States International Trade Commission) provides detailed tariff information.
What specific criteria determine if an article falls under HS code 711420, 'Of base metal clad with precious metal'?
HS code 711420 applies to articles of base metal that are clad with precious metal. This means the base metal (e.g., brass, copper, steel) forms the principal material or structure of the article, and it is covered or coated with a precious metal (e.g., gold, silver, platinum). The key is that the precious metal is applied to the surface of the base metal. If the article were predominantly made of precious metal with base metal components, it would likely be classified elsewhere. The World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes provide guidance on the interpretation of 'clad'.
How is the import duty calculated for goods classified under HS code 711420?
Import duty for HS code 711420 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it is a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if a shipment of base metal jewelry clad with gold has a customs value of $10,000 USD and the applicable duty rate is 2.00% ad valorem (using the US MFN rate as an example), the duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (Customs Value) × 0.02 (Duty Rate) = $200.00 USD. Always ensure the customs value is determined according to the importing country's valuation rules, often based on the WTO Customs Valuation Agreement.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 711420, and what documentation is typically required?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for goods under HS code 711420. Examples include the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), CAFTA-DR (Dominican Republic-Central America Free Trade Agreement), and agreements with countries like South Korea (KORUS FTA) and Chile. To claim preferential treatment, importers or their customs brokers must typically present a valid Certificate of Origin (COO) or a declaration of origin that meets the specific requirements of the relevant trade agreement. The importing country's customs authority (e.g., U.S. Customs and Border Protection) will specify the exact documentation and conditions for claiming preferential duty rates.
Are there specific documentation requirements beyond a commercial invoice and packing list for importing articles under HS code 711420?
Beyond standard import documents like the commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading, importing articles classified under HS code 711420 may require additional documentation depending on the specific product and importing country's regulations. For instance, if the precious metal cladding is gold or silver, specific declarations regarding the purity and weight of the precious metal might be necessary. If claiming preferential duty rates under a Free Trade Agreement, a valid Certificate of Origin is essential. Some countries may also require declarations related to the content of base metals or specific marking requirements for jewelry or articles of precious metal. Consulting the importing country's customs regulations or a customs broker is advisable.