HS 721030 Electrolytically plated or coated with zinc
Quick Answer: Flat-rolled products of iron or non-alloy steel, electrolytically plated or coated with zinc, enter the UK and EU duty-free, while the US imposes a Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 21.5%. This classification specifically covers steel that has undergone an electrolytic process to apply a zinc coating, enhancing its corrosion resistance. Importers should be aware of the significant duty differential between the US and other major markets. According to CustomTariffs data, careful consideration of the destination country's tariff schedule is crucial for accurate landed cost calculations and compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7210300000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7210300010 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7210300090 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7210300000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7210300090 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7210300010 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7210300060 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 72103000 | Free | — | — |
| 7210300030 | — | — | ["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 721030 cover?
This subheading covers flat-rolled products of iron or non-alloy steel, of a width exceeding 600 mm, electrolytically plated or coated with zinc. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this includes materials like galvanized steel sheets and coils that have undergone an electrolytic zinc coating process, often used in construction and automotive manufacturing. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm this scope, specifying that the zinc coating is applied through an electrochemical process, distinguishing it from hot-dip galvanization.
What falls outside HS 721030?
The following products are excluded from HS 721030: flat-rolled products of iron or non-alloy steel coated with zinc by hot-dip galvanization, which are classified under HS 721041 or 721049; products coated with other metals, such as tin (HS 721011/721012) or chromium (HS 721070); and flat-rolled products of stainless steel or alloy steel, which fall under different chapters. Also excluded are products of a width not exceeding 600 mm, typically classified under HS 7212. For example, hot-dip galvanized steel coils are specifically excluded.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 721030?
A common error is misinterpreting the coating method, confusing electrolytic zinc plating with hot-dip galvanization. General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1 for the Harmonized System emphasizes that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes. Importers may also incorrectly classify products based solely on their end-use rather than their material composition and manufacturing process, overlooking the specific requirements of heading 7210 and its subheadings, particularly the distinction between electrolytic and hot-dip processes.
How should importers classify products under HS 721030?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 721030 involves a thorough examination of the product's specifications. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the flat-rolled product is of iron or non-alloy steel, has a width exceeding 600 mm, and has been coated with zinc through an electrolytic process. Consulting the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, and reviewing the explanatory notes for Chapter 72 is crucial. Obtaining a detailed technical specification sheet from the manufacturer confirming the electrolytic zinc coating is highly recommended.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 721030?
A 10-ton shipment of electrolytically galvanized steel sheets, declared at a customs value of $15,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $450. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.0% ad valorem, as published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 721030. The calculation is: $15,000 (declared value) × 0.03 (3.0% duty rate) = $450 (duty amount). This rate applies if no preferential trade agreement is claimed.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 721030?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 721030, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for qualifying originating goods from Canada and Mexico. For goods originating from countries benefiting from the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), the US may offer a preferential rate of Free. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries. The EU's trade agreements with certain countries may also offer reduced rates or duty-free access, often requiring an EUR.1 movement certificate.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.
FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 721030 (flat-rolled products of iron or non-alloy steel, plated or coated with zinc, electrolytically)?
The duty rates for HS code 721030 vary significantly by importing country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is 0.00%. However, preferential rates under trade agreements may differ. In the European Union, the TARIC system indicates a duty rate of 0.00% for many origins, but specific trade agreements or anti-dumping measures can apply. The UK Trade Tariff also shows a 0.00% duty rate for most origins under the UK Global Tariff. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for accurate and up-to-date rates, as well as any applicable trade preferences or restrictions.
How is the classification of 'electrolytically plated or coated with zinc' determined under HS code 721030?
Classification under HS code 721030 hinges on several key criteria. Firstly, the material must be flat-rolled products of iron or non-alloy steel. Secondly, the width must be 500 mm or more. Thirdly, the thickness must exceed 0.5 mm but not exceed 3 mm. Crucially, the product must be plated or coated with zinc using an electrolytic process. Products coated by other methods, such as hot-dipping, would fall under different subheadings (e.g., 721041 for hot-dipped galvanized). The WCO's Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System provide detailed guidance on distinguishing between different coating methods and material specifications.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS 721030?
Standard import documentation for HS code 721030 generally includes a commercial invoice, a packing list, and a bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the origin of the goods, a certificate of origin may be required to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. For steel products, specific certifications related to material composition, quality standards, or compliance with local regulations (e.g., anti-dumping or safeguard measures) might also be necessary. Importers and customs brokers should verify the exact requirements with the customs authorities of the destination country.
Which common trade agreements might offer preferential duty rates for HS code 721030, and how do they affect the duty calculation?
Trade agreements can significantly reduce or eliminate duties for HS code 721030. For instance, goods originating from countries that are signatories to the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) may benefit from preferential treatment when imported into the US, Canada, or Mexico, often resulting in a 0.00% duty rate if rules of origin are met. Similarly, the EU has numerous Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with various countries that can grant preferential access. When a preferential rate applies, the duty is calculated using the agreed-upon lower rate (often 0.00%) applied to the customs value of the imported goods. For example, if a product valued at $10,000 USD is imported into the US under MFN (0.00%), the duty is $10,000 * 0.00 = $0. If a preferential rate of 0.00% is available, the duty remains $0. However, if an origin country had a non-preferential rate of, say, 2.5% and a preferential rate of 1.5% was available, the duty would be $10,000 * 0.015 = $150, a saving of $100.
How is the import duty for HS 721030 calculated when a non-zero duty rate applies?
Import duties for HS code 721030 are typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning a percentage of the customs value of the goods. Some countries may also apply specific duties (per unit) or a combination of both (compound duty). For an ad valorem duty, the formula is: Duty Amount = Customs Value × Duty Rate. For example, if a shipment of electrolytically zinc-coated steel sheets valued at $50,000 USD is imported into a country with a 2.5% ad valorem duty rate for HS 721030, the duty calculation would be: $50,000 USD × 0.025 = $1,250 USD. Importers must ensure the customs value is correctly determined according to the importing country's valuation rules, often based on the transaction value.