HS 720410 Waste and scrap of cast iron
Quick Answer: Waste and scrap of cast iron imported under HS 720410 enters the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00%, and the US at Free (74¢/t). This classification specifically covers discarded materials and by-products from the production or consumption of cast iron, such as broken machinery parts or foundry residues. These materials are typically subject to minimal or no duties due to their nature as recycled goods, facilitating their reintroduction into the manufacturing process. Importers should verify specific unit-based duties in the US, as the 74¢/t rate applies per metric ton. According to CustomTariffs data, this code generally reflects a global trend of encouraging the recycling of ferrous metals.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7204100000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7204100000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7204100000 | 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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 720410 cover?
This subheading covers waste and scrap of cast iron, as defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature. This includes ferrous materials that are primarily iron and have a carbon content exceeding 2%, typically resulting from the manufacture or mechanical breakdown of cast iron articles. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this category encompasses broken, worn-out, or otherwise unusable pieces of cast iron, suitable for remelting and reprocessing.
What falls outside HS 720410?
The following products are excluded from HS 720410: waste and scrap of other ferrous metals, such as steel (classified under 7204.49), and non-ferrous metal scrap. Furthermore, cast iron that has been significantly contaminated with other materials, rendering it unsuitable for remelting without extensive purification, may not qualify. For instance, cast iron components mixed with significant amounts of plastic or rubber would likely be classified elsewhere based on the predominant material or as a mixed waste.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 720410?
A common error is misclassifying steel scrap as cast iron scrap, or vice versa, due to similar appearances. This often arises from a lack of precise knowledge regarding the metallurgical differences, specifically carbon content. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Importers must ensure they can differentiate between the two based on material composition, not just visual cues, to avoid misclassification under Chapter 72.
How should importers classify products under HS 720410?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 720410 involves a thorough examination of the material's composition. Importers and customs brokers must obtain detailed specifications from the supplier, confirming the material is indeed cast iron and not steel. Verification of the carbon content, typically above 2% for cast iron, is crucial. Consulting the WCO HS Explanatory Notes and relevant national tariff schedules, such as the UK Trade Tariff, provides definitive guidance for accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 720410?
A shipment of 10 metric tons of cast iron engine blocks, declared at a customs value of $3,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $0.00. This is because the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) lists a Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of Free (0%) for HS code 7204.10.0000. Therefore, the calculation is 0% × $3,000 USD = $0.00 duty. Many countries offer duty-free entry for scrap metals to encourage recycling and reduce manufacturing costs.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 720410?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 720410, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, qualifying cast iron scrap originating from Canada or Mexico can be imported into the US duty-free. To claim this preference, a self-certified origin statement on the commercial invoice or a separate certificate of origin is typically required. Other agreements, like those with developing nations under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), may also offer reduced or free rates, often requiring a GSP Form A.
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 720410 (Waste and scrap of cast iron) into the United States?
For imports into the United States, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 720410 is 0.00%. Under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS), this classification is generally free of duty. For example, if a shipment of cast iron scrap is imported, the duty calculation would be $0.00 per tonne (or 0.00% ad valorem), resulting in no duty owed. It is crucial to verify any applicable trade agreements or special programs that might affect duty rates, as these can change. Always consult the latest HTSUS published by the US International Trade Commission (USITC) for definitive rates.
What specific criteria define 'waste and scrap of cast iron' under HS code 720410?
HS code 720410 specifically covers waste and scrap derived from the remelting of cast iron. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Explanatory Notes, this includes forgings, stampings, and other articles of cast iron, as well as turnings, shavings, and other manufacturing residues, provided they are suitable for remelting. The material must be in a form that is clearly recognizable as cast iron scrap and not as finished or semi-finished goods. Importers should ensure their documentation clearly identifies the material as waste or scrap intended for remelting to support the classification.
Are there any preferential duty rates for HS code 720410 under major trade agreements impacting the US market?
Currently, there are no significant preferential duty rates for HS code 720410 under major trade agreements that would typically apply to imports into the United States, such as USMCA. The standard MFN rate is 0.00%, meaning it is already duty-free for most trading partners. However, importers should always verify the specific origin of the goods and consult the relevant trade agreement text or the USITC's HTSUS to confirm the absence of any specific exclusions or conditions that might apply. For other jurisdictions, such as the EU or UK, preferential rates may exist under their respective trade agreements, but the base rate for this classification is often low or zero.
What documentation is typically required for importing waste and scrap of cast iron (HS 720410) into the EU?
When importing waste and scrap of cast iron (HS 720410) into the European Union, importers must provide a commercial invoice, a packing list, and a bill of lading or air waybill. Crucially, for waste materials, specific environmental controls and documentation may be required depending on the country of origin and the nature of the waste. This can include notifications and consents under the Waste Shipment Regulation (EC) No 1013/2006 if the waste is considered hazardous or subject to specific controls. Importers are advised to consult the EU's TARIC database and national environmental agency regulations for precise requirements. The duty rate under TARIC is typically 0.00% ad valorem, but compliance with waste regulations is paramount.
How is the duty calculated for HS code 720410 if a specific tariff rate other than ad valorem is applied, for example, in Canada?
While many countries apply ad valorem duties or have free entry for HS code 720410, some may use specific duties. For instance, if Canada were to apply a specific duty rate of 74¢/tonne (which is equivalent to $74 USD per 1000 kg, as 1 tonne = 1000 kg), the duty calculation would be based on the net weight of the imported cast iron scrap. For example, if an importer brings in 50 tonnes (50,000 kg) of cast iron scrap, the duty would be calculated as: 50,000 kg * ($0.74 USD / kg) = $37,000 USD. This is a hypothetical example, and actual rates must be verified with the relevant customs authority, such as the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), and the specific tariff schedule. It is important to note that the specific rate of 74¢/t is an example provided and may not reflect current Canadian tariff rates for this code.