HS 721510 Of free-cutting steel, not further worked than cold-formed or cold-finished

Quick Answer: Bars and rods of free-cutting steel, not further worked than cold-formed or cold-finished, enter the UK at 0.00% and the EU at 0.00%. In the US, this classification can result in duty-free entry or a combination of a specific duty (0.3¢/kg) plus an ad valorem duty of 20%, depending on the specific tariff line. This HS code specifically covers steel bars and rods that have been processed through cold forming or cold finishing, and are made from "free-cutting steel," a type of steel alloyed to facilitate machining. Importers should verify the exact US tariff line and its associated duties. CustomTariffs aggregates this trade data for compliance.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
7215100000 0.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
7215100000 0.00 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
72151000 Free — —
7215100010 — — ["kg"]
7215100080 — — ["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 to Classify This HS Code?

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What products does HS 721510 cover?

This subheading covers bars and rods of free-cutting steel, which have been further processed beyond basic hot-rolling or extrusion, specifically through cold-forming or cold-finishing techniques. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, "cold-formed" implies shaping at room temperature, while "cold-finished" encompasses processes like cold-drawing, cold-rolling, or grinding to achieve precise dimensions, improved surface finish, or enhanced mechanical properties. These bars and rods are typically used in the manufacture of screws, bolts, nuts, and other precision components where machinability and dimensional accuracy are paramount. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database align with this definition, specifying that the steel must possess a free-cutting quality, often due to the addition of sulfur or lead.

What falls outside HS 721510?

The following products are excluded from HS 721510: bars and rods of free-cutting steel that have undergone further working beyond cold-forming or cold-finishing, such as threading, drilling, or shaping into specific forms. Also excluded are bars and rods of other types of steel not specifically classified as "free-cutting steel" under Chapter 72, as well as those that have only been hot-formed or hot-finished. For instance, hot-rolled bars of free-cutting steel would fall under a different subheading, and finished components like screws or bolts, even if made from free-cutting steel, would be classified in their respective product headings, often in Chapter 73 or 83.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 721510?

A common error is misinterpreting the "not further worked than cold-formed or cold-finished" criterion. Importers may mistakenly classify products that have undergone additional manufacturing processes, such as machining into specific shapes or the application of surface treatments beyond basic finishing, under this subheading. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1 of the Harmonized System, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. If a product has undergone further working, it should be classified according to the nature of that further working, potentially in a more specific heading or subheading.

How should importers classify products under HS 721510?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 721510 involves a multi-step verification process. First, confirm that the material is indeed "free-cutting steel," typically identified by its chemical composition (e.g., higher sulfur content). Second, ascertain that the product is in the form of bars or rods. Third, verify that the only processing beyond basic steel production is cold-forming or cold-finishing, such as cold drawing or grinding, and that no further manufacturing operations have been performed. Importers and customs brokers should consult the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, for precise definitions and Explanatory Notes.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 721510?

A shipment of 10,000 kilograms of cold-finished free-cutting steel bars, declared at a customs value of $25,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $1,250. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value. The calculation is: 5.0% × $25,000 USD = $1,250 USD. This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) under subheading 721510.00.00 for products originating from countries not benefiting from preferential trade agreements.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 721510?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 721510, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating goods can benefit from a duty rate of Free. Countries such as Mexico and Canada are key beneficiaries. To claim this preferential rate, a self-certified origin statement on the commercial invoice or a separate declaration is typically required, attesting that the goods meet the USMCA rules of origin. Other agreements, like the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) for certain developing countries, may also offer reduced or free entry, requiring a GSP Form A.

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Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 721550 HS 721430 HS 721320 HS 720915 HS 722550 HS 722710

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 721510, covering 'Of free-cutting steel, not further worked than cold-formed or cold-finished'?

The import duty rates for HS code 721510 vary significantly by importing country. For example:

  • United States: The U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS) generally lists a Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 0.00% ad valorem for this classification. However, specific trade remedies or safeguard measures could apply, potentially increasing duties. Always verify with the latest USITC data.
  • European Union: Under the TARIC system, the duty rate is often listed as Free (0.00%). Preferential rates under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) may also be available, reducing or eliminating duties for goods originating from partner countries.
  • United Kingdom: The UK Trade Tariff typically shows a duty rate of 0.00% for goods classified under 721510. As with the EU, preferential rates might apply based on origin.

It is crucial for importers and customs brokers to consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country at the time of import, as rates can change and preferential treatment requires proof of origin.

What defines 'free-cutting steel' for the purposes of HS code 721510?

'Free-cutting steel' refers to steel that has been alloyed with specific elements, such as sulfur, phosphorus, lead, or selenium, to improve its machinability. These additions create small, brittle inclusions within the steel's structure, which cause chips to break off easily during machining operations, thus allowing for faster cutting speeds and reduced tool wear. For classification under 721510, the steel must meet the chemical composition requirements for free-cutting steel and be presented in a form not further worked than cold-formed or cold-finished (e.g., cold-drawn bars, rods, or profiles).

How is the duty calculated for HS code 721510 if a specific duty rate applies, such as 0.3¢/kg + 20% ad valorem?

If a mixed duty rate like '0.3¢/kg + 20% ad valorem' is applicable (this is a hypothetical example, as 721510 often has 0% duties in major markets), the total duty would be the sum of a specific duty based on weight and an ad valorem duty based on value.

Example Calculation: Assume a shipment of 1,000 kg of free-cutting steel bars valued at $5,000 USD, subject to a hypothetical duty of 0.3¢/kg + 20% ad valorem.

  1. Specific Duty: 1,000 kg * $0.003/kg (converting cents to dollars) = $3.00 USD
  2. Ad Valorem Duty: $5,000 USD * 20% = $1,000.00 USD
  3. Total Duty: $3.00 USD + $1,000.00 USD = $1,003.00 USD

Importers and brokers must carefully check the applicable duty structure (ad valorem, specific, or compound) in the destination country's tariff and ensure accurate weight and value declarations.

What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS code 721510?

Standard import documentation for HS code 721510 generally includes:

  • Commercial Invoice: Detailing the seller, buyer, description of goods, quantity, unit price, and total value.
  • Packing List: Outlining the contents of each package, including weight and dimensions.
  • Bill of Lading (Ocean) or Air Waybill (Air): Transport document issued by the carrier.
  • Certificate of Origin (COO): Essential if claiming preferential duty rates under a Free Trade Agreement (FTA). This document certifies that the goods meet the rules of origin requirements of the exporting country.
  • Mill Test Certificate: Often required by customs authorities to verify the steel's grade, chemical composition (confirming it is free-cutting steel), and mechanical properties, especially if specific standards are mandated.

Importers should confirm specific documentation requirements with the customs authority of the destination country and their customs broker.

Which common trade agreements might offer preferential duty rates for HS code 721510?

Many trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates, often reducing duties to 0% for goods like those under HS code 721510, provided they meet the rules of origin. Examples include:

  • United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA): For goods traded between the US, Mexico, and Canada.
  • European Union FTAs: The EU has numerous FTAs with countries worldwide (e.g., Japan, South Korea, Canada, Switzerland). Goods originating from these partner countries may benefit from reduced or eliminated duties.
  • United Kingdom FTAs: Post-Brexit, the UK has established Continuity Trade Agreements with many countries, mirroring or adapting previous EU agreements. Examples include agreements with Japan, Singapore, and Australia.

To claim preferential treatment, importers must possess a valid Certificate of Origin (COO) or equivalent proof of origin documentation as stipulated by the specific trade agreement and the importing country's regulations.