HS 721990 Other
Quick Answer: Flat-rolled products of stainless steel, not further worked than cold-rolled (cold-reduced), of a width not exceeding 600 mm, imported under HS 721990, enter the UK and EU duty-free, while entering the US at a 29% ad valorem rate under the MFN tariff. This residual classification, designated "Other," applies to stainless steel flat-rolled products meeting the specified width criteria that do not fall under more specific subheadings within HS 7219. Importers should exercise caution as the US rate is significantly higher. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the critical need for precise classification to ensure compliance and manage duty liabilities effectively.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7219902000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7219900000 | — | — | — |
| 7219902090 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7219908010 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7219902010 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7219902000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7219902020 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7219908000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7219908020 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7219900000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 72199000 | Free | — | — |
| 7219900020 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 7219900060 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 7219900010 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 7219900025 | — | — | ["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 721990 cover?
This subheading covers flat-rolled products of stainless steel, not further worked than cold-rolled (cold-reduced), with a thickness exceeding 0.5 mm, which do not fall under more specific subheadings within heading 7219. According to the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and definitions found in official tariff schedules like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC, this category is for stainless steel sheets, plates, and strips that meet these dimensional and processing criteria but are not otherwise specified, such as those with specific surface treatments or perforations.
What falls outside HS 721990?
The following products are excluded from HS 721990: flat-rolled stainless steel products that are hot-rolled, those with a thickness of 0.5 mm or less, and those that have undergone further working beyond cold-rolling, such as cladding, plating, or coating. For instance, stainless steel coils that have been cut to specific lengths and have undergone further fabrication, or stainless steel foil with a thickness below 0.2 mm (classified under 7219.10), are not classified here. Products that are not of stainless steel, such as carbon steel or alloy steel flat-rolled products, are also excluded.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 721990?
A common error is misinterpreting the "cold-rolled (cold-reduced)" requirement or the thickness specifications. Importers may mistakenly classify hot-rolled stainless steel products under this subheading, or products with a thickness outside the specified range. Furthermore, confusion can arise with other headings if the product has undergone significant further working not covered by the basic cold-rolling process. Adherence to General Interpretative Rule 1, which states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes, is crucial.
How should importers classify products under HS 721990?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 721990 involves a multi-step process. First, confirm that the product is indeed flat-rolled stainless steel. Second, verify that it has been cold-rolled (cold-reduced). Third, accurately measure its thickness to ensure it exceeds 0.5 mm. Finally, consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country (e.g., USITC HTS, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff) to confirm that no more specific subheading applies. If all criteria are met and no other subheading is more appropriate, then 721990 is the correct classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 721990?
A shipment of 500 kg of 304-grade stainless steel sheets, measuring 1.5 mm thick and declared at a customs value of $3,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $150.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate of 3.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value: 3.0% × $3,000 USD = $90.00. Note that for certain steel products, there may also be additional Section 232 duties or other trade remedies that would increase the total duty liability. This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 721990?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 721990, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can provide for 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 Vietnam. Documentation required to claim these preferences typically includes a self-certified origin statement for USMCA and a specific origin certificate for CPTPP, depending on the importing country's regulations.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 721990?
HS code 721990, which covers 'Other' flat-rolled products of stainless steel, not further worked than cold-rolled (cold-reduced), has varying duty rates depending on the importing country and trade agreements. For instance, the U.S. Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is often 0.00%. However, other countries may apply different rates. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the destination country. For example, the UK Trade Tariff lists a 0.00% duty rate under the UK Global Tariff for goods originating from most countries, but specific preferential rates may apply under trade agreements.
How is the duty for HS 721990 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty calculation for HS 721990 typically involves an ad valorem rate (a percentage of the value of the goods) or a specific rate (a fixed amount per unit of quantity), or a combination. For example, if a shipment of stainless steel flat-rolled products classified under 721990 has a customs value of $10,000 USD and the applicable duty rate is 3.5% ad valorem, the import duty would be calculated as: $10,000 USD (customs value) × 0.035 (duty rate) = $350 USD. Always confirm the exact duty basis (ad valorem, specific, or compound) with the destination country's customs authority.
What are the key classification criteria for products falling under HS 721990?
HS code 721990 is a residual category for flat-rolled products of stainless steel, not further worked than cold-rolled (cold-reduced). To be classified here, the product must meet the general definition of stainless steel (containing at least 10.5% chromium by weight), be in flat-rolled form (sheets, plates, strip), and have undergone cold-rolling. Products that are further worked (e.g., cut to shape, coated, or subjected to other finishing processes beyond cold-rolling) may fall under different HS codes. Importers must ensure their product precisely matches the description and exclusions of Chapter 72, heading 7219, and subheading 721990.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods under HS code 721990?
Standard import documentation for HS code 721990 generally 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 under trade agreements. Depending on the importing country and the specific product, additional documentation such as a mill test certificate (to verify material composition and compliance with standards) or import licenses might be required. Always verify the specific requirements with the customs authority of the destination country.
Which trade agreements commonly affect duty rates for HS code 721990, and how can importers benefit?
Trade agreements can significantly reduce or eliminate duties for HS code 721990. For example, the United States has Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries like Mexico and Canada (USMCA), and preferential programs like the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) for certain developing countries. The European Union has numerous Association Agreements and Free Trade Agreements with partner countries, and the UK has its own set of trade agreements post-Brexit. To benefit, importers must ensure the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement and possess a valid proof of origin (e.g., a certificate of origin or origin statement on the invoice) issued by the exporter. Consulting resources like the USITC, EU TARIC, or the UK Trade Tariff will provide details on specific agreements and their impact on duty rates for this HS code.