HS 721914 Of a thickness of less than 3 mm
Quick Answer: Stainless steel flat-rolled products of a thickness of less than 3 mm imported under HS 721914 enter the UK and EU duty-free, while the US imposes a 29% ad valorem duty under the MFN rate. This classification specifically covers stainless steel in coils or rectangular/square shapes, less than 3 millimeters in thickness, and not further worked than cold-rolled (cold-reduced). Importers should note the significant duty differential between the US and the UK/EU markets. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of accurate classification for cost-effective trade.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7219140000 | — | — | — |
| 7219141010 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7219141000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7219141090 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7219149000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7219141000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7219141090 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7219149010 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7219140000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7219141010 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7219140030 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 7219140090 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 72191400 | Free | — | — |
| 7219140065 | — | — | ["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 721914 cover?
This subheading covers flat-rolled products of stainless steel, not further worked than cold-rolled (cold-reduced), with a thickness of less than 3 mm. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category specifically includes stainless steel sheets, plates, and strip that have undergone cold rolling to achieve precise dimensions and a smooth surface finish. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that these products are characterized by their reduced thickness, typically used in applications requiring high strength and corrosion resistance, such as in automotive parts, kitchenware, and architectural elements.
What falls outside HS 721914?
The following products are excluded from HS 721914: stainless steel flat-rolled products with a thickness of 3 mm or more, which are classified under HS 721911 or 721912. Also excluded are products that have undergone further working beyond cold rolling, such as cutting into specific shapes, perforating, or coating, as these would fall under different subheadings. For instance, stainless steel wire (Chapter 72, Heading 7223) or stainless steel bars and rods (Chapter 72, Heading 7222) are distinct classifications and not covered by this subheading.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 721914?
A common error is misinterpreting the "thickness of less than 3 mm" criterion, leading to the incorrect classification of thicker materials. Another mistake involves confusing cold-rolled products with hot-rolled ones, which are classified under different subheadings within HS 7219. Furthermore, importers may incorrectly classify products that have undergone minor surface treatments or minor shaping operations that do not constitute further working as defined by the General Rules for the Interpretation of the Harmonized System (GRI), particularly GRI 1 and GRI 2.
How should importers classify products under HS 721914?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 721914 involves a thorough examination of the product's physical characteristics, specifically its material composition (stainless steel), form (flat-rolled), method of processing (cold-rolled), and precise thickness. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and cross-reference with the WCO HS Explanatory Notes. Verification of the thickness measurement is paramount to ensure it is indeed less than 3 mm.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 721914?
A 10-ton shipment of cold-rolled stainless steel sheets (HS 721914) with a declared customs value of $30,000 USD would attract a US duty of $1,500.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($30,000 USD × 0.05 = $1,500.00). This calculation is based on the duty rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for this specific subheading.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 721914?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 721914, 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, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement or a certificate of origin, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction.
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FAQ
What are the import duty rates for stainless steel flat-rolled products of a thickness less than 3 mm (HS 721914)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 721914 is 0.00% ad valorem. However, preferential duty rates may apply under various trade agreements. For example, under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), certain developing countries may benefit from reduced or free entry. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country and any applicable Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) to determine the exact duty rate. For instance, the EU TARIC database and the UK Trade Tariff provide detailed information on preferential rates.
What specific criteria define 'stainless steel' for HS code 721914?
According to Explanatory Note 72.17 to the Harmonized System (HS), stainless steel is defined as steel containing, by weight, 10.5% or more of chromium, but not more than 1.2% by weight of carbon, and other elements may be added. For HS code 721914, the 'flat-rolled products' refer to sheets, plates, and strip. The critical defining factor for this specific subheading is that the thickness must be less than 3 mm. Always refer to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and national customs rulings for definitive classification guidance.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods under HS 721914?
For importing stainless steel flat-rolled products under HS 721914, standard import documentation usually includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the origin and destination, a Certificate of Origin may be required to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. Importers should also be prepared to provide technical specifications or mill test certificates to verify the stainless steel composition and thickness, as requested by customs authorities. Consulting the importing country's customs agency, such as the U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) for U.S. imports, is recommended.
How is the import duty calculated for HS 721914 if a duty were applicable?
While the MFN duty rate for HS 721914 is currently 0.00% ad valorem, if a duty were applied, it would typically be calculated as a percentage of the declared value of the goods (ad valorem duty). For example, if a shipment of stainless steel flat-rolled products classified under HS 721914 had a customs value of $10,000 USD and the applicable duty rate was 2.5% ad valorem, the duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (Value) × 0.025 (Duty Rate) = $250 USD. Some countries may also apply specific duties (per unit) or a combination of ad valorem and specific duties, but for this code, ad valorem is most common when duties are applied.
Which common trade agreements might offer preferential duty rates for HS 721914?
Several trade agreements can impact the duty rates for HS 721914. For imports into the United States, the Caribbean Basin Economic Recovery Act (CBERA) and the Dominican Republic-Central America Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR) may offer preferential treatment for goods originating from eligible countries. For imports into the European Union, agreements with countries like Switzerland, Norway, or specific association agreements could provide reduced or zero duties. Similarly, the UK has numerous FTAs post-Brexit. Importers must verify the Rules of Origin within each specific trade agreement to ensure eligibility for preferential treatment and consult resources like the EU TARIC or the UK Trade Tariff.