HS 720711 Containing by weight less than 0,25 % of carbon
Quick Answer: Iron or non-alloy steel semi-finished products containing by weight less than 0.25% of carbon imported under HS 720711 enter the UK duty-free, the EU duty-free, and the US at 20% ad valorem under the MFN rate. This classification specifically covers semi-finished products of iron or non-alloy steel that are rectangular (including square) in cross-section, and have undergone initial shaping processes such as hot rolling, hot-drawn, or hot-extruded. They are not further worked than hot-rolled or hot-extruded. Importers should be aware of the significant duty differential for the US market. According to CustomTariffs data, while the EU and UK offer duty-free access, the United States imposes a substantial tariff.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7207111100 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7207110000 | — | — | — |
| 7207111400 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7207119000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7207111600 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7207110000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7207111400 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7207119000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7207111100 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7207111600 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7207110000 | 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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 720711 cover?
This subheading covers semi-finished products of iron or non-alloy steel, specifically in the form of ingots or other primary forms, which contain by weight less than 0.25% of carbon. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category includes products that have undergone initial shaping but are not yet finished goods. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database further define these as primary forms of steel with specific carbon content limitations, excluding those with higher carbon percentages or alloy additions.
What falls outside HS 720711?
The following products are excluded from HS 720711: semi-finished products of iron or non-alloy steel containing 0.25% or more of carbon by weight, which are classified under HS 720719. Also excluded are finished products like bars, rods, and wire, as well as flat-rolled products, tubes, pipes, and structural shapes, which are classified in subsequent headings within Chapter 72. Ingots or other primary forms of alloy steel, or those with specific surface treatments beyond basic mill finishes, would also fall outside this subheading.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 720711?
A common error is misinterpreting the carbon content threshold, leading to the incorrect classification of steel products. For instance, steel with 0.25% or more carbon by weight should be classified under HS 720719, not 720711. Another mistake involves confusing semi-finished products with finished goods; if the product has undergone further processing into specific shapes like bars or rods, it would be classified elsewhere. Adherence to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, which states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes, is crucial.
How should importers classify products under HS 720711?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 720711 involves a thorough examination of the product's technical specifications, particularly its carbon content by weight. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official HS Nomenclature, along with national tariff schedules like the USITC HTS or EU TARIC, to confirm the precise definition. Verification of the product's form (ingots or other primary forms) and the absence of significant alloy additions are also critical steps to ensure accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 720711?
A shipment of 10,000 kg of semi-finished non-alloy steel ingots, containing 0.15% carbon by weight, declared at a customs value of $8,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $400.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($8,000 USD × 0.05 = $400.00). This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 720711.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 720711?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 720711, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), where qualifying steel originating from Canada or Mexico can enter the US duty-free. For goods originating in the European Union, preferential rates or duty-free entry may be available under specific agreements, often requiring an EUR.1 movement certificate. The Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may also offer reduced or free entry for qualifying products from designated developing countries, typically requiring a GSP Form A.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 720711 (semi-finished products of iron or non-alloy steel, containing by weight less than 0.25% of carbon)?
For HS code 720711, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates are generally 0.00% in many major trading blocs. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the general rate is Free. Similarly, the EU TARIC system often shows a 0.00% duty for this classification. However, it is crucial to verify the specific duty rate applicable to your country of import, as rates can vary based on trade agreements, origin, and specific national legislation. Always consult the official tariff database of the importing country.
How is the classification of HS 720711 determined, particularly the 'containing by weight less than 0.25% of carbon' criterion?
The classification under HS code 720711 hinges on two primary factors: the product must be a semi-finished product of iron or non-alloy steel (e.g., ingots, billets, blooms, or slabs). Secondly, its carbon content must be less than 0.25% by weight. This carbon content is typically determined by laboratory analysis of the material's composition. Official documentation, such as a mill certificate or a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) from the manufacturer, is essential to substantiate this chemical composition for customs authorities. The World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes provide further guidance on the definition of semi-finished products and the chemical analysis requirements.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS 720711?
When importing goods under HS code 720711, standard import documentation is required, which typically includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Crucially, to support the classification, a mill certificate or Certificate of Analysis (CoA) is highly recommended, detailing the exact chemical composition, specifically confirming the carbon content is below 0.25% by weight. Depending on the importing country and any preferential trade agreements being claimed, a Certificate of Origin may also be necessary.
Do common trade agreements, such as USMCA or EU trade deals, offer preferential duty rates for HS code 720711?
Yes, common trade agreements can significantly impact duty rates for HS code 720711. For instance, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), originating goods may benefit from preferential duty rates, often resulting in duty-free entry. Similarly, the European Union has numerous trade agreements with third countries that could provide reduced or zero duty rates for qualifying products. To claim preferential treatment, importers must ensure the goods meet the rules of origin specified in the relevant trade agreement and possess the required proof of origin, such as a Certificate of Origin or origin statement on the invoice.
How is the import duty for HS 720711 calculated if a duty rate other than 0% applies, for example, a 20% ad valorem rate?
If a duty rate other than 0% applies, the calculation typically depends on whether the duty is ad valorem (based on value) or specific (based on quantity), or a combination. For an ad valorem duty, like a hypothetical 20% rate, the duty is calculated as a percentage of the customs value of the imported goods. For example, if a shipment of semi-finished steel under HS 720711 has a customs value of $10,000 USD and the applicable duty rate is 20% ad valorem, the duty amount would be: $10,000 (Customs Value) × 0.20 (Duty Rate) = $2,000 USD. It is essential to use the correct customs value, which often includes the cost of goods, insurance, and freight (CIF) up to the point of import.