HS 721260 Clad
Quick Answer: Steel products clad with other metals imported under HS 721260 enter the UK and EU duty-free, while the US imposes a 30% ad valorem duty under the MFN rate. This classification specifically covers flat-rolled products of iron or non-alloy steel, of a width not exceeding 600 mm, which have been clad, whether or not coated or plated. These are typically products where a layer of a different metal, such as stainless steel or aluminum, is bonded to the base steel. Importers should be aware of the significant duty differential between major trading blocs. CustomTariffs aggregates this information to aid compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7212600000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7212600019 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7212600050 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7212600012 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7212600020 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7212600000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7212600019 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7212600050 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7212600012 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7212600020 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7212600000 | 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 721260 cover?
This subheading covers flat-rolled products of iron or non-alloy steel, of a width exceeding 600 mm, clad, plated or coated with precious metal, as defined by the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature. According to the US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), this includes items where one or more base metals are permanently bonded to the surface of the iron or steel, such as gold or silver plating, to impart specific properties or aesthetic qualities. The EU TARIC system also aligns with this definition, focusing on the cladding process and the nature of the precious metal applied.
What falls outside HS 721260?
The following products are excluded from HS 721260: flat-rolled products that are merely plated or coated with base metals (e.g., tin, chromium, nickel), which fall under other subheadings within heading 7212. Additionally, products that are not "clad" in the sense of being permanently bonded, such as those with a temporary or superficial coating, are not classified here. For instance, steel sheets with a thin layer of gold paint applied for decorative purposes, without metallurgical bonding, would typically be classified elsewhere based on the primary material and coating type.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 721260?
A common error is misinterpreting the term "clad" and confusing it with other coating or plating processes. General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1 for the Harmonized System states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Importers may incorrectly classify products that are simply painted or have a very thin, non-metallurgical application of precious metal as clad, when they should be classified based on the base metal or other coating categories, potentially leading to incorrect duty assessments.
How should importers classify products under HS 721260?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 721260 involves a thorough examination of the product's manufacturing process and material composition. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the flat-rolled product of iron or non-alloy steel, exceeding 600 mm in width, has indeed been clad with a precious metal, meaning the precious metal is permanently bonded to the surface. Consulting technical specifications, manufacturer declarations, and referencing the WCO Explanatory Notes or national tariff databases like the USITC HTS or UK Trade Tariff is crucial for accurate determination.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 721260?
A 100 kg shipment of gold-clad stainless steel sheets, measuring 1200 mm wide and declared at a customs value of $15,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $1,500. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 10% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($15,000 USD × 10% = $1,500 USD). This calculation is based on the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, where such clad products are subject to specific ad valorem rates based on their precious metal cladding.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 721260?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 721260, 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 Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may also offer preferential rates, often Free, for eligible products from designated developing countries. 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 importing country's requirements.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.
FAQ
What are the import duty rates for HS code 721260 (clad flat-rolled products of iron or non-alloy steel, of a width of less than 600 mm, plated or coated)?
The duty rates for HS code 721260 vary significantly by importing country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the General (MFN) duty rate is Free. However, preferential rates under trade agreements may apply. In the EU, under the TARIC system, the rate can also be Free or subject to specific duties depending on the origin and trade status. The UK Trade Tariff also lists varying rates, often Free for many trade partners. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for the most accurate and up-to-date rates.
How is 'clad' defined for the purposes of HS code 721260?
For HS code 721260, 'clad' refers to flat-rolled products of iron or non-alloy steel that have been metallically coated or covered with another metal (e.g., by rolling, cladding, or electro-deposition) to provide enhanced properties such as corrosion resistance or aesthetic appeal. The base material is iron or non-alloy steel, and the cladding metal is typically stainless steel, aluminum, or other non-ferrous metals. The product must also have a width of less than 600 mm.
What documentation is typically required when importing goods under HS code 721260?
When importing goods classified under HS code 721260, standard import documentation is generally required. This 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 to claim preferential duty rates if applicable. Depending on the importing country and the specific nature of the clad product (e.g., if it involves specific coatings or alloys), additional certifications or declarations regarding material composition or compliance with standards might be requested by customs authorities.
How are import duties calculated for HS code 721260, and can you provide an example?
Import duties for HS code 721260 are typically calculated on an ad valorem basis (a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods) or sometimes as a specific duty (a fixed amount per unit of weight or measure). For example, if a country imposes a 3.5% ad valorem duty on this HS code, and you import clad steel products valued at $10,000 USD, the import duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (Value) × 0.035 (Duty Rate) = $350 USD. It is crucial to confirm the exact duty calculation method and rate applicable in the destination country's tariff schedule.
Which common trade agreements might affect the duty rates for HS code 721260?
The duty rates for HS code 721260 can be significantly impacted by trade agreements. For imports into the United States, the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) might offer preferential treatment for goods originating from Canada or Mexico. For imports into the European Union, agreements with countries like Switzerland, Norway, or specific free trade agreements (FTAs) with third countries can reduce or eliminate duties. Similarly, the UK has numerous FTAs post-Brexit that could affect duties on goods originating from partner countries. Importers should always verify the rules of origin and specific tariff provisions under relevant trade agreements to determine eligibility for preferential duty rates.