HS 721250 Otherwise plated or coated
Quick Answer: Steel flat-rolled products otherwise plated or coated enter the UK and EU duty-free, while the US applies a Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate of 21.5% for this classification. HS code 721250 specifically covers flat-rolled products of iron or non-alloy steel that have undergone plating or coating by methods other than those detailed in preceding headings, such as tinning, chromium plating, or painting. This broad category encompasses a wide array of treated steel sheets and strips used in various manufacturing sectors. Importers should verify specific coating types and base metal compositions to ensure accurate classification and duty assessment, as CustomTariffs data highlights potential variations.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7212502090 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7212503011 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7212500000 | — | — | — |
| 7212502000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7212502011 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7212502000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7212502019 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7212503000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7212503019 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7212504000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7212500000 | 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 721250 cover?
This subheading covers flat-rolled products of iron or non-alloy steel, of a width not exceeding 600 mm, which are otherwise plated or coated. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this includes items that have undergone processes such as tinning, lacquering, varnishing, plastic coating, or enamelling, beyond simple galvanization or plating with other base metals. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database further define this category by specifying that the coating is applied by methods other than those covered in preceding subheadings, such as hot-dip metallizing or electroplating with zinc or chromium.
What falls outside HS 721250?
The following products are excluded from HS 721250: flat-rolled products of iron or non-alloy steel that are simply galvanized (plated with zinc), plated or coated with other base metals (like nickel or copper), or clad. For instance, galvanized steel sheets (HS 721230) and tinplate (HS 721210) are classified under different subheadings. Furthermore, stainless steel or alloy steel flat-rolled products, regardless of their coating, are classified under Chapter 72, but not within heading 7212, and would fall under headings like 7219 or 7220.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 721250?
A common error is misinterpreting the "otherwise plated or coated" aspect, leading to the misclassification of products. For example, importers might incorrectly classify products that are simply painted or have a temporary protective film as "coated" under this subheading, when the WCO's General Rules for the Interpretation of the Harmonized System (GRI) require a more substantial and permanent coating process. Another mistake is confusing the base metal of the steel; if the product is made of stainless steel or alloy steel, it would not fall under heading 7212, even if coated.
How should importers classify products under HS 721250?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 721250 involves a multi-step process. Importers and customs brokers must first identify the material composition (iron or non-alloy steel) and the dimensions (width not exceeding 600 mm). Subsequently, they must determine the exact nature of the plating or coating applied, ensuring it is not zinc (galvanized), tin, or other base metals covered by preceding subheadings. Consulting the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, and reviewing explanatory notes from the WCO is crucial for accurate determination.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 721250?
A coil of pre-painted steel sheet, measuring 0.5 mm thickness and weighing 1,000 kg, declared at a customs value of $1,500 USD, would attract a US duty of $75 USD. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value: 5% × $1,500 USD = $75 USD. This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 721250.90.00.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 721250?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 721250, 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. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) also offers preferential rates, potentially Free, for originating goods from member countries like Japan and Australia. To claim these preferences, a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a specific origin declaration for CPTPP, depending on the jurisdiction, is typically required.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 721250, 'Other plated or coated flat-rolled products of iron or non-alloy steel'?
Import duty rates for HS code 721250 vary significantly by importing country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is 0.00%. However, preferential rates under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) may also apply, potentially resulting in duty-free entry. Conversely, some countries may impose higher tariffs; for instance, the EU's TARIC system can show rates up to 21.5% ad valorem for certain products within this classification, depending on the specific coating and origin. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for accurate rates.
What specific criteria determine if flat-rolled steel products fall under HS code 721250?
HS code 721250 covers flat-rolled products of iron or non-alloy steel that are 'otherwise plated or coated'. This means the products must be made from iron or non-alloy steel, have a thickness of less than 0.5 mm (as per the Chapter 72 notes for flat-rolled products), and possess a coating or plating that is not specifically covered by preceding headings within 7212 (such as 'tin') or other chapters. Examples include coatings of plastic, paint, or other organic materials, provided they are applied after the rolling process. The key is that the plating or coating is the defining characteristic beyond basic rolled steel.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS 721250?
Standard import documentation for HS 721250 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, a certificate of origin is often required to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements or to comply with country-specific regulations. Depending on the coating material and its application, additional certifications regarding compliance with environmental or safety standards (e.g., REACH for EU imports) might be necessary. Importers should verify specific requirements with customs authorities in the destination country.
How are import duties calculated for HS 721250, using a hypothetical example?
Import duties for HS 721250 are typically calculated on an ad valorem basis (a percentage of the declared value) or sometimes on a specific duty basis (per unit of weight or volume), depending on the importing country's tariff. For example, if a shipment of 10,000 kilograms of coated steel sheets classified under HS 721250 has a declared customs value of $2.50 per kilogram, and the applicable duty rate is 5.0% ad valorem, the duty calculation would be: 10,000 kg × $2.50/kg = $25,000 (Total Value). Duty = $25,000 × 5.0% = $1,250. If a specific duty applied, for instance, $0.10 per kilogram, the duty would be 10,000 kg × $0.10/kg = $1,000.
Which major trade agreements might offer preferential duty rates for HS code 721250?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for HS code 721250. For instance, goods originating from countries party to the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) may benefit from reduced or zero duties when imported into the United States, Canada, or Mexico, provided they meet the rules of origin. Similarly, imports into the European Union from countries with an Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) or Association Agreement may qualify for preferential treatment. The UK's Generalized Tariff Preference (GTP) scheme and its various trade deals also impact duty rates. Importers must consult the specific trade agreement and ensure their goods meet the relevant rules of origin to claim these benefits.