HS 721220 Electrolytically plated or coated with zinc
Quick Answer: Flat-rolled products of iron or non-alloy steel, of a width not exceeding 600 mm, electrolytically plated or coated with zinc, enter the UK and EU duty-free, while the US applies a Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate of 21.5%. This classification specifically covers steel products that have undergone an electroplating or coating process with zinc, enhancing their corrosion resistance. Importers should be aware of potential anti-dumping duties or other trade remedies that may apply in certain jurisdictions, which CustomTariffs aggregates. Accurate classification is crucial for ensuring correct duty payments and compliance with import regulations.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7212200019 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7212200090 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7212200000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7212200011 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7212200000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7212200019 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7212200011 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7212200090 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7212200000 | 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 721220 cover?
This subheading covers flat-rolled products of iron or non-alloy steel, of a width of less than 600 mm, which have been electrolytically plated or coated with zinc. According to the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and definitions found in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC, this includes items like galvanized steel sheets, strips, and plates that have undergone an electrolytic process for zinc application, providing corrosion resistance. The key characteristic is the method of zinc coating being electrolytic, not hot-dip or other methods.
What falls outside HS 721220?
The following products are excluded from HS 721220: flat-rolled products of iron or non-alloy steel coated with zinc by hot-dip galvanizing (classified under HS 7210 or 7211 depending on width), stainless steel flat-rolled products (Chapter 72, Heading 7219 or 7220), or flat-rolled products of alloy steel (Chapter 72, Heading 7225 or 7226). Additionally, products with other types of coatings, such as tin or chromium plating, or those that are painted or plastic-coated, would not fall under this specific subheading.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 721220?
A common error is misinterpreting the method of zinc coating. Importers may incorrectly classify hot-dip galvanized steel under this subheading, failing to distinguish it from the electrolytic process. This can also occur when the steel is coated with other materials in addition to zinc, or if the steel itself is an alloy steel or stainless steel, which are classified elsewhere according to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1 of the Harmonized System.
How should importers classify products under HS 721220?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 721220 involves first confirming that the product is flat-rolled steel of iron or non-alloy steel, less than 600 mm in width. Crucially, the importer must verify that the zinc coating was applied through an electrolytic process. Reviewing technical specifications, manufacturer declarations, and consulting the relevant tariff schedule (e.g., USITC HTS, EU TARIC) are essential steps for accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 721220?
A 10-ton shipment of electrolytically zinc-plated steel sheets, declared at a customs value of $15,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $1,050.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 7.00% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($15,000 USD × 0.07 = $1,050.00). This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 721220?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 721220. For instance, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), qualifying goods from Canada or Mexico may enter duty-free. Similarly, goods originating from countries benefiting from the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may receive reduced or zero duties. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 721220 (Electrolytically plated or coated with zinc)?
Import duty rates for HS code 721220 can vary significantly by country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is 0.00%. However, preferential rates under trade agreements may apply. The EU's TARIC system and the UK's Trade Tariff also list specific rates, which can be subject to anti-dumping duties or other measures. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the most accurate and up-to-date duty rates.
What specific criteria define goods classified under HS code 721220?
HS code 721220 specifically covers flat-rolled products of iron or non-alloy steel, of a width of less than 600 mm, which have been electrolytically plated or coated with zinc. Key classification criteria include: 1. The material must be iron or non-alloy steel. 2. The product must be flat-rolled. 3. The width must be less than 600 mm. 4. The coating must be applied through an electrolytic process, and the coating material must be zinc. Products coated by other methods (e.g., hot-dip galvanizing) would fall under different HS codes.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 721220?
For HS code 721220, standard import documentation usually includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list; a bill of lading or air waybill; and a certificate of origin. Depending on the importing country and the specific transaction, additional documents such as a manufacturer's declaration or a certificate of conformity might be requested to verify the material composition and coating process. Customs brokers should verify specific requirements with the importing country's customs authority.
How do trade agreements, such as USMCA or EU trade deals, affect the duty rates for HS code 721220?
Trade agreements can significantly reduce or eliminate duties for goods classified under HS code 721220 if the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the agreement. For instance, goods originating from countries party to the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) might qualify for preferential duty rates, potentially reducing the duty to 0.00% if all requirements are met. Similarly, trade agreements between the EU and third countries can offer reduced tariffs. Importers must obtain a valid certificate of origin from the exporter to claim preferential treatment.
How is the import duty for HS code 721220 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The calculation of import duty for HS code 721220 depends on the specific duty rate applied by the importing country. Duties can be ad valorem (a percentage of the value) or specific (a fixed amount per unit of quantity). For example, if a country applies a 2.5% ad valorem duty rate and the declared customs value of a shipment of electrolytically zinc-plated steel sheets (HS 721220) is $10,000 USD, the duty would be calculated as: 2.5% of $10,000 = $250 USD. If a specific duty rate of $0.10 per kilogram applied, and the shipment weighed 5,000 kg, the duty would be: $0.10/kg * 5,000 kg = $500 USD. Always confirm the applicable duty basis (ad valorem or specific) and rate with the official tariff schedule.