HS 730520 Casing of a kind used in drilling for oil or gas
Quick Answer: Casing of a kind used in drilling for oil or gas imported under HS 730520 enters the UK duty-free, the EU duty-free, and the US with a primary Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate of Free. This classification specifically covers seamless steel tubes and pipes designed for use in the exploration and extraction of oil and natural gas. These are typically robust, large-diameter pipes with threaded ends, built to withstand the high pressures and harsh conditions of drilling operations. Importers should verify specific product specifications against the official tariff schedules of the importing country to ensure correct classification and duty assessment. According to CustomTariffs data, this category generally benefits from preferential duty treatment in major markets.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7305200000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7305200000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 730520 | — | — | — |
| 7305204000 | Free | — | ["kg"] |
| 7305208000 | Free | — | ["kg"] |
| 7305202000 | Free | — | ["kg"] |
| 7305206000 | Free | — | ["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 730520 cover?
This subheading covers seamless tubes and pipes of iron or steel, specifically those of a kind used in drilling for oil or gas. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, this includes casing pipes designed to line boreholes in oil and gas exploration. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm this scope, emphasizing their specialized construction for high-pressure environments and resistance to corrosion encountered in subterranean drilling operations.
What falls outside HS 730520?
The following products are excluded from HS 730520: general-purpose steel pipes and tubes not specifically designed for oil or gas drilling, such as those used in construction or general plumbing. Also excluded are pipes with welded seams, which would fall under other headings within Chapter 73. For instance, standard structural steel pipes or those intended for water distribution systems, even if made of iron or steel, would be classified elsewhere based on their specific use and construction, not the specialized requirements of oil and gas extraction.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 730520?
A common error is misclassifying general-purpose steel pipes as casing for oil and gas drilling simply because they are made of steel. This mistake often arises from overlooking the specific technical requirements and intended use stipulated by the WCO and national tariff schedules. According to General Interpretative Rule 1, classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Importers may also incorrectly classify pipes with welded seams under this subheading, failing to adhere to the distinction between seamless and welded products.
How should importers classify products under HS 730520?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 730520 involves a thorough examination of the product's technical specifications and intended application. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the tubes or pipes are indeed seamless and specifically manufactured for use in drilling for oil or gas. Consulting the product's technical data sheets, manufacturer's declarations, and cross-referencing with the WCO HS Explanatory Notes, USITC HTS, or EU TARIC is crucial to ensure accurate classification and avoid potential penalties.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 730520?
A shipment of 10,000 kilograms of seamless steel casing pipe for oil and gas drilling, declared at a customs value of $25,000 USD, would attract a US duty. Assuming a Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 0% ad valorem as per the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for this specific item, the duty amount would be $0.00. This is calculated using the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, where the duty is 0% × $25,000 USD = $0.00.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 730520?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 730520, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating goods may receive a preferential rate of Free. Canada and Mexico are key origin countries benefiting from this. To claim preference, a valid USMCA certification of origin is required. For goods originating in the European Union and imported into the UK, the UK-EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement may also provide preferential duty rates, often Free, requiring an EUR.1 movement certificate or an origin declaration.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 730520 (Casing of a kind used in drilling for oil or gas)?
The duty rates for HS code 730520 can vary significantly by importing country. For example, under the United States Harmonized Tariff Schedule (US HTS), the general (MFN) duty rate is Free. In the European Union, as per the TARIC database, the rate is typically 0.00%. The UK Trade Tariff also often lists a 0.00% duty for this classification. However, importers must always verify the specific rates applicable to their country of import and any potential preferential agreements. Always consult the official tariff database of the destination country for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
What specific criteria define casing for drilling for oil or gas under HS code 730520?
HS code 730520 specifically covers 'Casing of a kind used in drilling for oil or gas'. This generally refers to seamless tubes or pipes made of iron or steel, designed to line a borehole during oil and gas exploration and extraction. Key characteristics often include specific wall thicknesses, diameters, steel grades (e.g., API grades), and threading or coupling mechanisms designed to withstand the high pressures and corrosive environments encountered in drilling operations. Non-tubular products, or those not intended for this specific drilling application, would likely be classified elsewhere.
Are there common trade agreements that might offer preferential duty rates for HS code 730520?
While the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS 730520 is often Free in major markets like the US and EU, importers should investigate applicable trade agreements. For instance, if importing into the United States from a country with a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) such as the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), the goods may still qualify for preferential treatment, though the duty would likely remain Free. Similarly, within the EU, goods originating from member states or countries with specific trade pacts might benefit from zero duties. It is crucial to confirm the Rules of Origin for any relevant trade agreement to ensure eligibility for preferential rates.
How is the import duty for HS code 730520 calculated, and can you provide an example?
Import duty calculation depends on the duty rate structure (ad valorem, specific, or compound). For HS code 730520, where the duty is often Free (0.00%), the duty amount is typically zero. However, if a duty were applicable, for example, a 1% ad valorem rate, the calculation would be based on the customs value of the imported goods. Let's assume a shipment of casing valued at $100,000 USD and a 1% ad valorem duty rate. The duty would be calculated as: Duty = Customs Value × Duty Rate. In this hypothetical scenario: Duty = $100,000 × 1% = $1,000. In addition to duties, importers must also account for any applicable taxes (like VAT or GST) and potential customs fees.
What documentation is typically required when importing goods classified under HS code 730520?
When importing casing for oil and gas drilling (HS 730520), standard import documentation is generally required. This includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list specifying the contents of each package; and a bill of lading or air waybill as the transport document. Depending on the importing country and the origin of the goods, a Certificate of Origin may be necessary to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. Furthermore, specific technical specifications or certifications related to the casing's compliance with industry standards (e.g., API standards) might be requested by customs authorities to verify its intended use and classification.