HS 720853 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 720853 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00%, and the US at 20% under the MFN rate. This classification specifically covers hot-rolled or cold-rolled steel sheets and plates within this precise thickness range. Importers should note the significant duty differential for the US market, which may impact landed costs. According to CustomTariffs data, while the UK and EU offer duty-free access for these goods, the US imposes a substantial tariff. Exporters and customs brokers must carefully consider these varying tariff treatments when planning shipments.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7208530000 | — | — | — |
| 7208531000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7208539000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7208530000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7208539000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7208531000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7208530000 | 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 to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 720853 cover?
This subheading covers flat-rolled products of iron or non-alloy steel, not further worked than hot-rolled, with a width of 600 mm or more, and specifically those with 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 sheets and plates that meet these precise dimensional criteria, excluding those with surface coatings or further processing beyond hot-rolling. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database confirm this scope, focusing on the material composition and the specific thickness range.
What falls outside HS 720853?
The following products are excluded from HS 720853: flat-rolled products of iron or non-alloy steel that are thinner than 3 mm or 4.75 mm or thicker. Also excluded are products that have undergone further working, such as cold-rolling, galvanizing, or painting, which would place them in different HS headings or subheadings. For instance, cold-rolled steel sheets fall under HS 7209, and galvanized steel sheets are classified under HS 7210 or 7211, depending on their thickness and processing.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 720853?
A common error is misinterpreting the precise thickness requirements, leading to the classification of products that are slightly outside the 3 mm to 4.75 mm range. For example, steel sheets with a thickness of exactly 4.75 mm would not fall under this subheading. Additionally, confusion can arise if the product has undergone minor surface treatments that are not considered "further working" under the General Rules for the Interpretation of the Harmonized System (GRI), potentially leading to misclassification.
How should importers classify products under HS 720853?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 720853 involves a thorough examination of the product's physical characteristics, particularly its thickness and width, and confirmation that it is hot-rolled and not further worked. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, to verify the exact specifications. Measurement of the steel product's thickness to the nearest tenth of a millimeter is crucial for accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 720853?
A shipment of 10,000 kg of hot-rolled steel sheet, with a declared customs value of $8,000 USD and a thickness of 4 mm, 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 subheading 7208.53.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 720853?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 720853, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating steel products from Canada and Mexico can enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preference, a self-certified origin statement is typically required. Additionally, the EU's Generalised Scheme of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or duty-free access for certain developing countries, requiring a GSP Form A for eligible origins.
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 720853 (flat-rolled products of iron or non-alloy steel, of a thickness of 3 mm or more but less than 4.75 mm)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 720853 is 0.00% ad valorem in the United States, as per the US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule. However, preferential duty rates may apply under various trade agreements. For instance, goods originating from Canada or Mexico under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) may be eligible for duty-free entry, provided they meet the rules of origin. Importers and customs brokers should always verify the specific origin and applicable trade agreement to determine the correct duty rate. Always consult the latest version of the US HTS for definitive rates.
How is the duty calculated for HS code 720853 if a duty rate other than 0.00% were applicable?
While the MFN duty rate for HS 720853 is currently 0.00% in the US, if a duty rate were, for example, 5% ad valorem, the duty would be calculated based on the customs value of the imported goods. For instance, if a shipment of steel valued at $10,000 arrived, the duty would be $10,000 (customs value) * 0.05 (duty rate) = $500. If a specific duty were applied (e.g., $10 per metric ton), the calculation would be $10 (duty per ton) * [Quantity in tons]. It is crucial to use the correct customs value or quantity and the applicable duty rate as published in the official tariff schedule.
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 720853?
HS code 720853 specifically covers 'flat-rolled products of iron or non-alloy steel, of a thickness of 3 mm or more but less than 4.75 mm'. The primary classification criteria are: 1. Material: Must be iron or non-alloy steel. 2. Form: Must be 'flat-rolled products', meaning they are supplied in coils or rectangular plates, sheets, or strips. 3. Thickness: The critical dimension is the thickness, which must be equal to or greater than 3 mm and strictly less than 4.75 mm. Products outside this thickness range would be classified under different subheadings within Chapter 72. Refer to the Explanatory Notes of the Harmonized System for detailed definitions.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods under HS code 720853?
For importing flat-rolled steel products classified under HS 720853, standard documentation includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list; and a bill of lading or air waybill. Crucially, importers and customs brokers must be prepared to provide proof of origin if claiming preferential duty rates under a trade agreement (e.g., a Certificate of Origin for USMCA). Depending on the country of origin and destination, additional certifications regarding material composition, quality standards, or compliance with specific regulations (e.g., anti-dumping or countervailing duties, if applicable) may be necessary. Always check the specific import requirements of the destination country.
Are there any common trade agreements that significantly impact the duty rates for HS code 720853?
Yes, trade agreements can significantly impact duty rates for HS code 720853. For imports into the United States, the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) is a key agreement, often allowing for duty-free entry for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. Other agreements, such as those with Australia or South Korea, might offer reduced or preferential duty rates, although the MFN rate for this specific code is currently 0.00% in the US. For imports into other jurisdictions like the EU or UK, agreements such as the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement or various EU Free Trade Agreements would be relevant, potentially offering preferential rates. Importers must ensure their goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the respective trade agreements to benefit from these provisions.