HS 720712 Other, of rectangular (other than square) cross-section
Quick Answer: Semi-finished products of iron or non-alloy steel, of rectangular (other than square) cross-section, imported under HS 720712 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00%, and the US at Free under the MFN rate. This classification specifically covers steel products that have undergone initial shaping, such as blooms, billets, or slabs, where the width is greater than the thickness but not equal. These are typically intermediate products destined for further processing into finished steel goods like bars, rods, or structural shapes. Importers should note that while duty rates are currently favorable in these major markets, vigilance regarding potential future tariff changes or specific trade agreements is advised. CustomTariffs aggregates this duty information for trade professionals.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7207120000 | — | — | — |
| 7207121000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7207129000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7207121000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7207120000 | — | — | — |
| 7207129000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 72071200 | Free | — | — |
| 7207120050 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 7207120010 | — | — | ["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 720712 cover?
This subheading covers semi-finished products of iron or non-alloy steel, which are not further worked than hot-rolled or hot-extruded, and which have a rectangular (other than square) cross-section. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and definitions found in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and EU TARIC, this category specifically excludes products with a square cross-section, which are classified under a different subheading. The key defining characteristic is the non-square rectangular shape of the cross-section.
What falls outside HS 720712?
The following products are excluded from HS 720712: semi-finished products of iron or non-alloy steel with a square cross-section, which are classified under HS 720711. Also excluded are finished products, such as bars, rods, or wire, that have undergone further working beyond hot-rolling or hot-extrusion. Products made from alloy steel or stainless steel are also classified under different headings within Chapter 72. For instance, hot-rolled steel angles with a square cross-section would not fall under this subheading.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 720712?
A common error is misinterpreting the "rectangular (other than square) cross-section" requirement, leading to the incorrect classification of square cross-section products under this subheading. Another mistake involves classifying products that have undergone further working beyond hot-rolling or hot-extrusion, such as cold-formed bars or drawn wire, which should be classified in later headings. 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 720712?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 720712 involves first confirming that the product is indeed a semi-finished product of iron or non-alloy steel, not further worked than hot-rolled or hot-extruded. Next, the cross-sectional shape must be verified to be rectangular and not square. Importers and customs brokers should consult the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, and review the specific wording of heading 7207 and its subheadings, paying close attention to any relevant explanatory notes or decisions.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 720712?
A shipment of 10,000 kilograms of hot-rolled, non-alloy steel flat bars with a rectangular cross-section, declared at a customs value of $8,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $240.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($8,000 USD × 0.03 = $240.00). This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 720712?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 720712, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating goods from Canada and Mexico can enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preference, a valid origin declaration is required. For goods originating in countries benefiting from the EU's Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP), preferential rates may apply, often resulting in duty-free entry, with documentation like a EUR.1 movement certificate or an origin declaration on the invoice being necessary for customs clearance.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 720712?
HS code 720712 covers 'Semi-finished products of iron or non-alloy steel, not further worked than hot-rolled or extruded, of rectangular (other than square) cross-section'. The duty rates can vary significantly by importing country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the general rate of duty is Free. However, preferential rates may apply under trade agreements. For instance, goods originating from Canada or Mexico under USMCA may have different duty treatment. Always consult the latest HTS for the most accurate and up-to-date duty information for your specific import. The EU TARIC system and the UK Trade Tariff also provide detailed duty rates for their respective jurisdictions, which may differ from US rates.
How is the 'rectangular (other than square) cross-section' criterion applied for HS 720712 classification?
This criterion distinguishes products under 720712 from those with a square cross-section (classified under 720711). A rectangular cross-section means that two pairs of sides are of unequal length. For example, a bar measuring 50mm by 100mm has a rectangular cross-section. If the measurements were 50mm by 50mm, it would be considered square. The cross-section is determined at the point of measurement perpendicular to the length of the product. This precise measurement is critical for correct HS classification, as misclassification can lead to incorrect duty assessment and potential penalties.
What documentation is typically required when importing goods classified under HS 720712?
Standard import documentation for semi-finished steel products like those under HS 720712 generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Crucially, to benefit from preferential duty rates under trade agreements (e.g., USMCA, EU Free Trade Agreements), a certificate of origin is usually mandatory. This document must attest that the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated by the relevant trade agreement. Importers should also be prepared to provide technical specifications or mill certificates if requested by customs authorities to verify the material composition and cross-sectional dimensions, ensuring compliance with the HS code definition.
How is the duty calculated for HS 720712 if it were subject to an ad valorem rate?
If HS code 720712 were subject to an ad valorem duty rate (a percentage of the value), the calculation would be straightforward. For example, if a shipment of semi-finished steel bars with a rectangular cross-section has a declared customs value of $10,000 USD and the applicable ad valorem duty rate is 3.5%, the duty amount would be calculated as: $10,000 (Customs Value) × 0.035 (Duty Rate) = $350 USD. It is important to note that many countries, including the US for this specific code, apply a Free rate of duty. However, if specific trade measures or anti-dumping duties were in place, the calculation could involve other components or specific rates based on weight or a combination of value and weight.
Which major trade agreements might affect the duty rates for HS code 720712?
Several major trade agreements can influence the duty rates for HS code 720712. For imports into the United States, the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) is significant, potentially offering duty-free entry for qualifying goods. For imports into the European Union, various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries like Canada, Japan, or South Korea may provide preferential tariff treatment. Similarly, the United Kingdom has its own set of FTAs post-Brexit. Importers must verify the rules of origin for each specific agreement and ensure their goods meet the criteria to claim preferential treatment. Consulting the official tariff schedules of the importing country, which often detail the preferential rates available under each trade agreement, is essential.