HS 721491 Other
Quick Answer: Iron or non-alloy steel bars, other than those of free-cutting steel, and hollow drill bars and rods, imported under HS 721491, enter the UK and EU duty-free, while the US imposes a 20% ad valorem duty on certain items. This classification specifically covers bars and rods of iron or non-alloy steel that do not fit into more specific subheadings within Chapter 72, excluding those with a cross-sectional circular, rectangular (non-square), or square shape. Importers should carefully review the specific product characteristics against the detailed descriptions within the tariff schedule to ensure correct classification and duty application. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the significant duty differential for US imports.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7214910000 | — | — | — |
| 7214911000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7214911010 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7214911090 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7214919000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7214910000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7214911000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7214911090 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7214919010 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7214911010 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7214910020 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 7214910090 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 72149100 | Free | — | — |
| 7214910016 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 7214910060 | — | — | ["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 721491 cover?
This subheading covers other bars and rods of iron or non-alloy steel, not further worked than cold-formed or cold-finished, and not coiled. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category specifically includes items that do not meet the criteria for other subheadings within 7214, such as those that are hot-rolled, hot-drawn, or hot-finished. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database provide further detail, generally defining these as bars and rods with a uniform cross-section throughout their length, produced through cold working processes like cold drawing or cold rolling, and not supplied in coils.
What falls outside HS 721491?
The following products are excluded from HS 721491: bars and rods of iron or non-alloy steel that are hot-rolled, hot-drawn, or hot-finished (classified under 7214.10 through 7214.90, depending on shape and processing); stainless steel bars and rods (Chapter 72, Heading 7222); alloy steel bars and rods (Chapter 72, Heading 7228); and bars and rods further worked beyond cold-forming or cold-finishing, such as those that are drilled, grooved, or fluted. Also excluded are coiled products, which fall under other subheadings within Heading 7214.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 721491?
A common error is misinterpreting the "not further worked than cold-formed or cold-finished" criterion. Importers may incorrectly classify products that have undergone additional working processes, such as threading, cutting to specific lengths with chamfered ends, or surface treatments beyond basic finishing, under this subheading. This often violates General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, which states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. If a product has undergone more advanced working, it likely belongs to a different subheading or heading.
How should importers classify products under HS 721491?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 721491 involves a thorough examination of the product's manufacturing process and final form. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the bars and rods are made of iron or non-alloy steel, have a uniform cross-section, and have been cold-formed or cold-finished but not further worked. Consulting the official HS Explanatory Notes, national tariff schedules like the USITC HTS or EU TARIC, and potentially requesting a binding ruling from customs authorities are crucial steps to ensure accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 721491?
A shipment of 10,000 kg of cold-drawn steel bars (round, 20mm diameter) declared at a customs value of $15,000 USD would attract a US duty of $1,500.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 10% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value ($15,000 USD × 0.10 = $1,500.00). This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) under subheading 7214.91.0000 for "Other" bars and rods of iron or non-alloy steel.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 721491?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 721491, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which offers a preferential rate of Free for originating goods. Originating goods from Mexico and Canada benefit from this. For goods originating from the European Union, the EU-US Trade Agreement (if fully implemented and applicable to this specific product) or similar bilateral agreements may offer reduced rates or Free entry, requiring an EUR.1 movement certificate or a self-certified origin statement. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may provide duty-free access for eligible goods from developing countries, requiring a GSP Form A.
```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 721491?
HS code 721491, which covers 'Other bars and rods of iron or non-alloy steel, not further worked than cold-formed or cold-finished', has varying duty rates depending on the importing country and trade agreements. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is often 0.00%. However, preferential rates under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) may also apply, potentially resulting in duty-free entry. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for the definitive rate. For instance, the EU TARIC system and the UK Trade Tariff provide detailed breakdowns for goods imported into those regions.
How is the import duty for HS 721491 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The calculation of import duty for HS code 721491 typically depends on whether the duty is ad valorem (a percentage of the value) or specific (a fixed amount per unit of quantity), or a combination. For example, if a country applies a 5% ad valorem duty and you import 1,000 kg of steel bars valued at $2,000 USD, the duty would be calculated as follows: Duty = 5% of $2,000 USD = $100 USD. If there were also a specific duty, such as $0.10 per kg, the total duty would be $100 USD (ad valorem) + (1,000 kg * $0.10/kg) = $100 USD + $100 USD = $200 USD. Always verify the exact duty basis (ad valorem, specific, or compound) from the official tariff schedule.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods under HS code 721491?
Importing goods classified under HS code 721491 generally requires a standard set of customs documentation. This includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list; a bill of lading or air waybill for transport; and a certificate of origin to claim preferential duty rates if applicable. Depending on the importing country's regulations and the specific nature of the steel product, additional certifications, such as mill test certificates or compliance statements regarding material standards (e.g., ASTM, EN), may be necessary to verify the steel's composition and properties.
Which common trade agreements might offer preferential duty rates for HS code 721491?
Several trade agreements can impact the duty rates for HS code 721491. For instance, goods originating from countries party to the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) may benefit from reduced or eliminated duties when imported into the US, Canada, or Mexico, provided rules of origin are met. Similarly, imports into the European Union from countries with an Association Agreement or a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the EU may qualify for preferential treatment under the EU TARIC system. Importers should consult the relevant FTA text and the customs authority of the importing country to determine eligibility and required proof of origin.
What are the key criteria for classifying steel bars and rods under HS code 721491 versus other related codes?
HS code 721491 specifically covers 'Other bars and rods of iron or non-alloy steel, not further worked than cold-formed or cold-finished'. The key classification criteria involve the material (iron or non-alloy steel), the form (bars and rods), and the processing (not further worked than cold-formed or cold-finished). 'Cold-formed or cold-finished' typically refers to processes like cold drawing, cold rolling, or straightening performed after hot rolling. If the bars or rods are hot-rolled, have undergone further working (like machining or threading), or are made of alloy steel, they would likely fall under different HS codes within Chapter 72. Consulting the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System (WCO) and the specific national tariff's General Rules of Interpretation (GRIs) is essential for accurate classification.