HS 720260 Ferro-nickel
Quick Answer: Ferro-nickel imported under HS 720260 enters the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00%, and the US at a rate of Free, 6.6¢/kg. This classification covers ferro-nickel, an alloy of iron and nickel, primarily used in the production of stainless steel and other nickel-containing alloys. Importers should be aware of the specific unit-based component of the US duty rate, which requires precise weight measurement for accurate duty calculation. According to CustomTariffs data, while the UK and EU offer duty-free entry, the US imposes a combination of ad valorem and specific duties.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7202600000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7202600000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7202600000 | Free | — | ["kg","Ni 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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 720260 cover?
This subheading covers ferro-nickel, a master alloy of iron and nickel. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, it specifically includes alloys of iron and nickel containing 10% or more by weight of nickel. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm this scope, defining ferro-nickel as a product primarily used in the production of stainless steel and other nickel-containing alloys, characterized by its significant nickel content.
What falls outside HS 720260?
The following products are excluded from HS 720260: pure nickel, nickel alloys not containing iron, and ferro-alloys of other metals. For instance, pure nickel ingots or powders (HS 7501 and 7502) are classified separately. Similarly, nickel-copper alloys (HS 7502) or nickel-chromium alloys (HS 7218, if primarily iron) would not fall under this subheading. Products containing less than 10% nickel by weight, even if they are iron-based, are also excluded.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 720260?
A common error is misinterpreting the nickel content threshold. General Interpretative Rule (GIR) 1 of the Harmonized System mandates classification based on the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Importers may incorrectly classify products with less than 10% nickel under this subheading, or conversely, classify other nickel-containing materials that do not meet the definition of a ferro-alloy. Accurate chemical analysis is crucial to avoid misclassification.
How should importers classify products under HS 720260?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 720260 involves obtaining a detailed chemical analysis of the material to confirm its composition, specifically the percentage of nickel by weight. Importers and customs brokers must then consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, to verify that the product meets the definition of ferro-nickel and is not specifically excluded. Accurate product descriptions and supporting documentation are essential.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 720260?
A shipment of 10,000 kg of ferro-nickel, declared at a customs value of $30,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $3,000. This is calculated using the U.S. Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 10% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($30,000 USD × 10% = $3,000). This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) under subheading 7202.60.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 720260?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 720260. For instance, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), originating ferro-nickel from Canada or Mexico may enter the U.S. duty-free. To claim this preference, a self-certified origin statement on the commercial invoice is typically required. Similarly, originating goods from countries benefiting from the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may also receive reduced or duty-free treatment, often requiring a GSP Form A.
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FAQ
What are the standard import duty rates for HS code 720260 (Ferro-nickel)?
The standard Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for ferro-nickel under HS code 720260 is 0.00% ad valorem in the United States. In the European Union, the duty rate is also 0.00% ad valorem. The United Kingdom's duty rate is Free. It is crucial to consult the latest tariff schedules for the importing country, as rates can change. Sources include the US International Trade Commission (USITC) for US rates, the EU's TARIC database for EU rates, and the UK Government's Trade Tariff for UK rates.
How is ferro-nickel classified under HS code 720260, and what are the key criteria?
HS code 720260 specifically covers 'Ferro-nickel'. Classification hinges on the product being an alloy of iron and nickel, produced by smelting in a blast furnace or electric furnace, and typically containing significant amounts of nickel. The World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes provide guidance. Generally, the product must contain by weight 5% or more of nickel, and the iron content must be greater than the nickel content. Importers should ensure their product meets these compositional and manufacturing criteria to avoid misclassification.
What documentation is typically required for importing ferro-nickel (HS 720260)?
Standard documentation for importing ferro-nickel (HS 720260) usually includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and a bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the origin of the goods, a certificate of origin may be required to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. For specific commodity requirements, such as safety or environmental compliance, additional permits or certificates might be necessary. Always verify the exact requirements with the customs authority of the destination country.
Do any common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for ferro-nickel (HS 720260)?
While the standard MFN duty rates for ferro-nickel (HS 720260) are often 0.00% or Free in major markets like the US, EU, and UK, trade agreements can still be relevant. For instance, agreements like the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) or various EU Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) might offer duty-free or reduced-duty access for goods originating from partner countries. However, to benefit, importers must ensure the ferro-nickel meets the specific rules of origin stipulated in the respective trade agreement. A valid certificate of origin is typically mandatory.
How is the duty calculated for ferro-nickel if a specific rate applies, and can you provide an example?
The duty calculation depends on the specific duty rate applied by the importing country. For HS code 720260, many countries apply an ad valorem rate (a percentage of the value) or a specific rate (per unit of weight). For example, if a country had a specific duty rate of 6.6¢/kg and an importer brought in 10,000 kg of ferro-nickel valued at $20,000 USD, the duty calculation would be: 10,000 kg * $0.066/kg = $660.00 USD. If the rate were 3.5% ad valorem, the duty would be $20,000 USD * 0.035 = $700.00 USD. It is crucial to identify the correct duty rate (MFN, preferential, or other) and the basis of calculation (ad valorem or specific) from the official tariff schedule.