HS 720838 Of a thickness of 3 mm or more but less than 4,75 mm
Quick Answer: Flat-rolled products of iron or non-alloy steel, of a thickness of 3 mm or more but less than 4.75 mm, imported under HS 720838 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00%, and the US at Free under the MFN rate. This classification specifically covers hot-rolled steel coils and plates within this precise thickness range, excluding those further processed or alloyed. Importers should be aware that while MFN rates are currently duty-free in the US and zero in the UK and EU, specific trade agreements or anti-dumping measures could introduce additional duties. CustomTariffs aggregates this information to assist in compliance planning.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7208380000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7208380010 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7208380090 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7208380000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7208380090 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7208380010 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 72083800 | Free | — | — |
| 7208380030 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 7208380015 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 7208380090 | — | — | ["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 to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 720838 cover?
This subheading covers flat-rolled products of iron or non-alloy steel, not further worked than hot-rolled, of a width of 600 mm or more, and specifically of a thickness of 3 mm or more but less than 4.75 mm. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category includes products such as hot-rolled steel coils and plates that meet these precise dimensional criteria. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database further define these specifications, ensuring consistent classification of these semi-finished steel goods.
What falls outside HS 720838?
The following products are excluded from HS 720838: flat-rolled steel products with a thickness less than 3 mm or 4.75 mm or more, and those with a width less than 600 mm. Additionally, products that have undergone further working beyond hot-rolling, such as cold-rolling, galvanizing, or coating, are classified under different headings. For instance, cold-rolled steel sheets (HS 7209) or galvanized steel sheets (HS 7210) would not fall under this specific subheading, even if their dimensions otherwise matched.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 720838?
A common error is misinterpreting the precise thickness requirements, leading to incorrect classification. For example, classifying a product that is exactly 4.75 mm thick under this subheading would be erroneous, as it must be *less than* 4.75 mm. Another mistake involves overlooking the "hot-rolled" condition; if the steel has been cold-rolled after hot-rolling, it would be classified elsewhere, often under HS 7209, as per General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1 of the Harmonized System.
How should importers classify products under HS 720838?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 720838 involves a meticulous examination of the product's physical characteristics. Importers and customs brokers must verify the width (600 mm or more) and the exact thickness (3 mm or more but less than 4.75 mm) of the flat-rolled steel. Confirmation that the product is exclusively hot-rolled and not further worked is crucial. Consulting the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, is essential for accurate determination.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 720838?
A shipment of 10,000 kg of hot-rolled steel coils, measuring 3.5 mm in thickness and 1200 mm in width, declared at a customs value of $8,000 USD, would attract a US duty. Assuming a Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 2.5% ad valorem, the calculated duty would be $200 USD (2.5% × $8,000). This calculation is based on the ad valorem rate applied to the declared customs value, as published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 720838?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 720838, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating steel products from Canada and Mexico can benefit from a 0% duty rate. To claim this preference, a valid origin declaration or certificate of origin, as specified by the USMCA rules, is required. Other agreements might offer reduced rates for specific countries, necessitating a review of the importing country's preferential tariff schedule.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 720838, specifically for steel plates with a thickness between 3 mm and 4.75 mm?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 720838, covering flat-rolled products of iron or non-alloy steel, of a thickness of 3 mm or more but less than 4.75 mm, is 0.00% ad valorem for the United States (USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule). However, other countries may have different rates. For instance, the UK Trade Tariff lists a duty rate of Free for goods originating from most countries under its General Tariff. It is crucial to verify the specific duty rate applicable to the country of import and the origin of the goods, as preferential agreements can alter these rates.
How is the duty calculated for HS code 720838 if a duty rate applies?
Duty calculation for HS code 720838 typically involves an ad valorem rate, which is a percentage of the goods' value. For example, if a country imposes a 20% ad valorem duty on steel plates classified under 720838, and the customs value of the imported steel plates is $10,000, the duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (Customs Value) × 20% (Duty Rate) = $2,000 (Duty Amount). Some tariffs may also include specific duties (per unit of weight or measure) or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties, depending on the importing country's tariff schedule.
What are the key classification criteria for steel products under HS code 720838?
HS code 720838 specifically covers flat-rolled products of iron or non-alloy steel that are 'of a thickness of 3 mm or more but less than 4.75 mm'. Key classification criteria include the material composition (iron or non-alloy steel), the product form (flat-rolled, i.e., coils or plates), and the precise thickness range. Products outside this thickness range, or made from alloy steel, would be classified under different HS codes. For example, steel with a thickness of 4.75 mm or more falls under HS code 720839.
Which trade agreements commonly affect the duty rates for HS code 720838, and what documentation is needed to claim preferential treatment?
Trade agreements such as the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) or various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) the EU or UK may have with partner countries can significantly reduce or eliminate duties for goods classified under HS code 720838. To claim preferential treatment under these agreements, importers or customs brokers typically need to provide a Certificate of Origin (COO) or a declaration of origin issued by the exporter, certifying that the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement. The specific documentation requirements vary by agreement and importing country.
Are there any specific documentation requirements beyond a Certificate of Origin for importing steel under HS code 720838?
Beyond a Certificate of Origin for preferential duty claims, standard import documentation for HS code 720838 generally includes a commercial invoice, a packing list, and a bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country's regulations and the specific nature of the steel product, additional documents might be required. These could include mill test certificates to verify material specifications and compliance with international standards (e.g., ASTM, EN), or import licenses if the steel is subject to quotas or specific trade controls. Consulting the customs authority of the importing country is essential for a comprehensive list.