HS 720110 Non-alloy pig iron containing by weight 0,5 % or less of phosphorus
Quick Answer: Non-alloy pig iron containing by weight 0.5% or less of phosphorus imported under HS 720110 enters the UK duty-free, the EU at 1.70% ad valorem, and the US at a rate of Free or $1.11 per tonne. This classification specifically covers basic pig iron, also known as "foundry iron" or "basic iron," which is a high-carbon iron alloy produced directly from a blast furnace. It is typically used as a raw material in the production of cast iron and steel. Importers should note the varying duty rates across major markets, which can significantly impact landed costs. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying specific country tariff schedules for accurate compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7201100000 | — | — | — |
| 7201101100 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7201101190 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7201101900 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7201103000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7201101100 | 1.70 % | — | — |
| 7201101190 | 1.70 % | — | — |
| 7201103000 | 1.70 % | — | — |
| 7201103090 | 1.70 % | — | — |
| 7201100000 | — | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7201100000 | Free | — | ["t"] |
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 720110 cover?
This subheading covers non-alloy pig iron that contains, by weight, 0.5% or less of phosphorus. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, pig iron is defined as iron-containing, by weight, more than 2% carbon and which may contain also other elements within specified limits. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC system align with this definition, specifying that the phosphorus content is the critical differentiator for this particular classification under Heading 7201.
What falls outside HS 720110?
The following products are excluded from HS 720110: pig iron with a phosphorus content exceeding 0.5% by weight, which would typically fall under HS 720120. Ferro-alloys, such as ferrosilicon or ferromanganese, are also excluded as they are specifically defined by their higher alloy content. Furthermore, steel in ingots or other primary forms, even if remelted pig iron, is classified under different headings within Chapter 72, provided it meets the criteria for steel production.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 720110?
A common error is misinterpreting the phosphorus content threshold. Importers may incorrectly classify pig iron with a phosphorus content slightly above 0.5% under this subheading, or conversely, classify products with lower phosphorus content under a more general pig iron category. Adherence to the precise chemical composition stipulated in the WCO HS Explanatory Notes and national tariff schedules, such as the UK Trade Tariff, is crucial, often requiring laboratory analysis to confirm the 0.5% limit.
How should importers classify products under HS 720110?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 720110 involves obtaining a detailed chemical analysis certificate for the imported pig iron. This certificate must clearly state the phosphorus content by weight. Importers and customs brokers should then consult the relevant national tariff schedule, such as the USITC HTS or EU TARIC, to confirm that the product meets all other criteria for non-alloy pig iron and that the phosphorus content is indeed 0.5% or less. Accurate documentation is paramount.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 720110?
A shipment of 100 metric tons of non-alloy pig iron containing 0.3% phosphorus, declared at a customs value of $50,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $1,500.00. This is calculated using the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule's Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($50,000 USD × 0.03 = $1,500.00). Note that some specific importations might be subject to different rates based on origin or trade agreements.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 720110?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 720110, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating pig iron from Canada or Mexico can enter the US duty-free. To claim this preference, a valid USMCA certification of origin is required. Similarly, the EU's trade agreements with certain countries may offer preferential rates, often requiring an EUR.1 movement certificate for goods originating from those partner nations.
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 720110 (non-alloy pig iron with <= 0.5% phosphorus)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 720110 is 0.00% ad valorem in the United States (USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule). In the European Union, under TARIC, the rate is also 0.00%. The United Kingdom's Trade Tariff shows a rate of Free. Some preferential trade agreements may offer similar duty-free treatment, but it's crucial to verify the specific origin and applicable agreement. Always consult the latest official tariff schedule for the importing country.
What specific criteria define 'non-alloy pig iron containing by weight 0.5% or less of phosphorus' under HS 720110?
HS code 720110 covers pig iron, which is an intermediate product of iron smelting, characterized by high carbon content (typically 3.5-4.5%) and significant amounts of silicon, manganese, and phosphorus. The key classification criterion here is that the pig iron must be 'non-alloy' and contain by weight 0.5% or less of phosphorus. 'Non-alloy' means it does not intentionally contain other alloying elements beyond those naturally present in the iron ore and coke used in smelting, or in amounts specified in the chapter notes for pig iron. Verification often requires a chemical analysis certificate from the supplier.
What documentation is typically required for importing non-alloy pig iron under HS 720110?
For importing HS code 720110, standard documentation includes a commercial invoice, a packing list, and a bill of lading or air waybill. Crucially, a certificate of analysis (COA) or a chemical composition report is often required by customs authorities to verify that the pig iron meets the specified phosphorus content (0.5% or less) and is indeed non-alloy. Proof of origin is also essential, especially if claiming preferential duty rates under a trade agreement. Importers should also be prepared for potential safety and environmental compliance documentation depending on the importing country's regulations.
How is the duty calculated for HS 720110 if a duty were applicable, and what is an example?
While the MFN duty for HS 720110 is currently 0.00% in major markets like the US, EU, and UK, let's illustrate a hypothetical calculation if a duty of 1.70% ad valorem were applied. Ad valorem duties are calculated as a percentage of the imported goods' value. For example, if you import 100 metric tons (t) of non-alloy pig iron valued at $500 per ton, the total value is $50,000 (100 t * $500/t). A 1.70% ad valorem duty would be calculated as: $50,000 (value) * 0.0170 (duty rate) = $850. The duty amount would be $850. Some tariffs might also include specific duties (e.g., per ton), but for this code, ad valorem is common.
Are there common trade agreements that grant preferential duty rates for HS 720110?
Given that the MFN duty rate for HS 720110 is often 0.00% (Free) in major economies like the US, EU, and UK, the impact of many trade agreements may not result in further duty reductions. However, it is always prudent to check. For instance, if a specific trade agreement stipulated a 0.00% duty rate for goods originating from a partner country, and the MFN rate was slightly higher, the agreement would be beneficial. Importers should consult the customs authority of the importing country and review the specific preferential trade agreements in force (e.g., USMCA for North America, EU's agreements with various countries) to confirm origin requirements and any applicable benefits for goods classified under HS 720110.