HS 731100 Seamless
Quick Answer: Steel cylinders imported under HS 731100 enter the UK at 2.00%, the EU at 2.70%, and the US at rates ranging from Free to 25%. This Harmonized System code specifically covers seamless steel cylinders, commonly used for the storage and transport of gases, such as compressed air, propane, or oxygen. Importers should be aware that while the UK and EU maintain consistent ad valorem duty rates, the US exhibits a wider range, with some classifications being duty-free. Exporters should verify specific end-use and product specifications against the detailed tariff schedules in each destination country. CustomTariffs aggregates this information, highlighting the need for precise classification to ensure compliance and accurate duty assessment.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7311003000 | 2.00 % | — | — |
| 7311001900 | 2.00 % | — | — |
| 7311001100 | 2.00 % | — | — |
| 7311001120 | 2.00 % | — | — |
| 7311001315 | 2.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7311001115 | 2.70 % | — | — |
| 7311001180 | 2.70 % | — | — |
| 7311001300 | 2.70 % | — | — |
| 7311001320 | 2.70 % | — | — |
| 7311001385 | 2.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7311000030 | — | — | ["No.","kg"] |
| 7311000090 | — | — | ["No.","kg"] |
| 73110000 | Free | — | — |
| 7311000060 | — | — | ["No.","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 731100 cover?
This subheading covers containers of iron or steel, of a kind used for the transport of any gas, compressed or liquefied, that are seamless. According to the World Customs Organization (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 includes items such as seamless steel cylinders, bottles, and tubes designed to hold gases under pressure, excluding those that are welded or manufactured by other methods.
What falls outside HS 731100?
The following products are excluded from HS 731100: containers of iron or steel that are welded or manufactured by other processes, such as seam welding. Additionally, containers not specifically designed for compressed or liquefied gases, even if made of steel, are classified elsewhere. For example, seamless steel pipes and tubes for general mechanical or structural purposes, or seamless drums and barrels for liquids, would not fall under this subheading.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 731100?
A common error is misclassifying welded steel gas cylinders under this subheading. General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1 of the Harmonized System states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes. Therefore, the manufacturing method (seamless vs. welded) is a critical determinant. Importers may also incorrectly classify containers for non-gaseous substances or those with visible seams.
How should importers classify products under HS 731100?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 731100 involves a thorough examination of the product's construction and intended use. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the container is made of iron or steel and is manufactured using a seamless process. Consulting technical specifications, product literature, and potentially requesting a ruling from customs authorities based on the specific design and manufacturing method is essential for accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 731100?
A seamless steel propane cylinder weighing 10 kg and declared at a customs value of $50 USD would attract a US duty of $5.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 10% ad valorem, applied to the declared value. The calculation is: 10% of $50 USD = $5.00. This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, specifically under HTSUS subheading 7311.00.0000.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 731100?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 731100, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating seamless steel gas cylinders from Canada or Mexico may enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preference, a valid origin declaration or certificate of origin is typically required, depending on the value and specific provisions of the agreement.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 731100, covering seamless containers of iron or steel?
Import duty rates for HS code 731100 vary significantly by country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the general rate is 2.70% ad valorem. The EU's TARIC system may have different rates, often subject to specific product types and origin. The UK Trade Tariff also presents a range of duties. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate applicable to your shipment. Rates can be ad valorem (a percentage of the value) or specific (a fixed amount per unit).
How is the import duty for HS 731100 calculated? Can you provide an example?
The duty calculation depends on whether the rate is ad valorem or specific. For an ad valorem rate, it's a percentage of the customs value of the goods. For example, if a shipment of seamless steel cylinders valued at $10,000 USD is imported into the US, and the MFN duty rate is 2.70%, the duty would be $10,000 USD * 0.0270 = $270 USD. If the duty were specific, for instance, $0.50 per kilogram, and the shipment weighed 500 kg, the duty would be 500 kg * $0.50/kg = $250 USD. Always confirm the basis of duty calculation (value or quantity) with the importing country's customs authority.
What are the key classification criteria for goods under HS code 731100?
HS code 731100 specifically covers 'Containers for compressed or liquefied gas, of iron or steel, seamless'. The primary classification criteria are: 1. Material: The container must be made of iron or steel. 2. Construction: It must be 'seamless', meaning it is manufactured without welded seams. 3. Function: It must be designed for holding compressed or liquefied gas. Items that are welded or designed for other purposes would fall under different HS codes. For instance, welded cylinders or tanks would be classified elsewhere.
Are there preferential duty rates or trade agreement benefits applicable to HS code 731100?
Yes, preferential duty rates under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) can significantly impact the duty payable for HS code 731100. For example, goods originating from countries with an FTA with the importing country (like the USMCA for the United States, Canada, and Mexico) may qualify for reduced or zero duty rates. Importers must ensure they have the necessary proof of origin documentation, such as a certificate of origin, to claim these preferential rates. Always verify the specific origin requirements and eligible trade agreements with the customs authority of the destination country.
What documentation is typically required for importing seamless steel containers under HS code 731100?
Standard import documentation for HS code 731100 includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Crucially, depending on the importing country and the nature of the gas contained, additional documentation may be required. This could include safety certifications, pressure test reports, or compliance certificates demonstrating that the containers meet relevant safety standards (e.g., DOT regulations in the US, or equivalent international standards). Proof of origin is essential if claiming preferential duty rates under a trade agreement.