HS 721610 U, I or H sections, not further worked than hot-rolled, hot-drawn or extruded, of a height of less than 80 mm
Quick Answer: U, I or H sections of iron or non-alloy steel, not further worked than hot-rolled, hot-drawn or extruded, and with a height of less than 80 mm, imported under HS 721610 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 0.00%, and the US with duty rates ranging from Free to 2%. This classification specifically covers structural shapes like U-beams, I-beams, and H-beams that have undergone basic hot-working processes and are of a relatively small size. Importers should verify the exact duty rate applicable in the US based on specific product dimensions and origin. CustomTariffs aggregates this information, highlighting the generally favorable duty treatment in the UK and EU for these goods.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7216100000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7216100000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 72161000 | Free | — | — |
| 7216100050 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 7216100010 | — | — | ["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?
What products does HS 721610 cover?
This subheading covers U, I, or H sections of iron or non-alloy steel that have undergone only hot-rolling, hot-drawing, or extrusion processes and have a height of less than 80 mm. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, these are basic structural shapes. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that these are unfinished steel profiles, not yet subjected to further working like cutting to length or drilling, which would place them in a different classification.
What falls outside HS 721610?
The following products are excluded from HS 721610: steel sections that have been further worked beyond hot-rolling, hot-drawing, or extrusion, such as those that are cut to specific lengths, drilled, punched, or welded. Also excluded are sections with a height of 80 mm or more, which fall under HS 7216.10. Furthermore, finished or fabricated steel products, such as assembled beams or structural components ready for construction, are classified elsewhere, typically in Chapter 84 or 94, depending on their specific use and degree of assembly.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 721610?
A common error is misinterpreting "not further worked." Importers may incorrectly classify steel sections that have undergone minor additional processes, such as deburring or surface treatment for rust prevention, under this subheading. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, classification is determined by the terms of the heading and any relative section or chapter notes. If a product meets the criteria of a more specific heading or subheading, it should be classified there, even if it also meets the criteria of a more general one.
How should importers classify products under HS 721610?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 721610 involves a thorough examination of the product's physical characteristics and the extent of its processing. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the steel sections are indeed U, I, or H shapes, not further worked than hot-rolled, hot-drawn, or extruded, and that their height is strictly less than 80 mm. Consulting the official tariff schedule, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and referencing explanatory notes from the WCO is crucial for accurate determination.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 721610?
A shipment of 10,000 kg of hot-rolled steel U-channels, each with a height of 60 mm and declared at a customs value of $15,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $1,050. This is calculated using the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule's Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 7.0% ad valorem (7.0% × $15,000 = $1,050). Note that if the product were subject to a specific duty based on weight, the calculation would differ.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 721610?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 721610, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) may also offer preferential rates for goods from member countries like Vietnam. To claim these preferences, a valid origin declaration or certificate, such as a self-certified origin statement for USMCA, is typically required.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 721610 (U, I or H sections, not further worked than hot-rolled, hot-drawn or extruded, of a height of less than 80 mm)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 721610 is typically 0.00% ad valorem in the United States. However, duty rates can vary significantly based on the importing country and any applicable trade agreements. For example, the European Union's TARIC system may list a duty rate of 0.00% for certain origins, while other countries might have rates around 2%. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country for the exact applicable rate. Importers and customs brokers should always verify the rate based on the country of origin and the specific trade agreement in force.
How is the duty calculated for HS code 721610 if a duty rate of 2% ad valorem applies?
The duty for HS code 721610, when subject to a 2% ad valorem rate, is calculated as a percentage of the declared customs value of the imported goods. For instance, if a shipment of U-sections valued at $10,000 USD arrives, and the applicable duty rate is 2% ad valorem, the import duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (Customs Value) * 0.02 (Duty Rate) = $200.00. Importers must ensure accurate valuation of goods for correct duty calculation.
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 721610?
HS code 721610 specifically covers 'U, I or H sections, not further worked than hot-rolled, hot-drawn or extruded, of a height of less than 80 mm'. The critical criteria for classification are: 1. Shape: The product must be in the form of U, I, or H sections (structural shapes). 2. Working Process: The sections must not be further worked than hot-rolling, hot-drawing, or extrusion. This means processes like cutting to length, drilling, or welding would typically move the product to a different HS code. 3. Dimensions: The height of the section must be less than 80 mm. If the height is 80 mm or more, it would fall under a different heading. Referencing the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System is recommended for detailed guidance.
What common trade agreements might affect the duty rates for HS code 721610?
Trade agreements can significantly impact duty rates for HS code 721610. For imports into the United States, the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) may provide preferential duty rates for goods originating from Canada or Mexico. Similarly, the EU's Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) or specific Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with various countries can lead to reduced or zero duty rates within the EU. For the UK, the UK Global Tariff incorporates various trade agreements. Importers and customs brokers must ascertain the country of origin of the goods and check if a preferential trade agreement exists between the exporting and importing countries to potentially benefit from reduced duties. Documentation such as a Certificate of Origin is usually required to claim preferential treatment.
Are there specific documentation requirements for importing goods under HS code 721610?
While specific documentation can vary by importing country, standard requirements for importing goods under HS code 721610 typically include a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list; and a bill of lading or air waybill. Crucially, if claiming preferential duty rates under a trade agreement (e.g., USMCA, EU FTAs), a valid Certificate of Origin is mandatory. Customs authorities may also request technical specifications or mill certificates to verify the material and processing of the steel sections. Importers and customs brokers should consult the customs regulations of the destination country and the specific requirements of any applicable trade agreement.