HS 731210 Stranded wire, ropes and cables
Quick Answer: Stranded wire, ropes, and cables imported under HS 731210 enter the UK duty-free, the EU duty-free, and the US at rates ranging from Free to 45% ad valorem. This classification covers metal products formed by twisting or braiding multiple strands of wire together to create flexible yet strong structures. Examples include steel wire rope used in construction and shipping, and galvanized steel cables for various industrial applications. Importers should consult specific tariff lines within this heading for precise duty rates and any applicable preferential trade agreements. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the significant duty variations for the US market.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7312108100 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7312108112 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7312108119 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7312108190 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7312106599 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7312102000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7312104900 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7312106191 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7312106500 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7312106599 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7312100500 | Free | — | ["kg"] |
| 731210 | — | — | — |
| 73121010 | Free | — | — |
| 7312101050 | — | — | ["kg"] |
| 7312102000 | 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 731210 cover?
This subheading covers stranded wire, ropes, and cables, specifically those made of iron or steel. 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 TARIC, this category includes products formed by twisting together multiple strands or wires of iron or steel. Examples include steel wire rope used in construction, elevators, and marine applications, as well as stranded steel cables for general industrial purposes.
What falls outside HS 731210?
The following products are excluded from HS 731210: stranded wire, ropes, and cables made from materials other than iron or steel, such as aluminum or copper. Also excluded are single unstranded wires or cables, even if they are of iron or steel. Products that are insulated or sheathed with materials like plastic or rubber, which are intended for electrical purposes, are typically classified under Chapter 85. For instance, electrical power cables are generally classified elsewhere, not under this heading.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 731210?
A common error is misclassifying insulated electrical cables under HS 731210. General Interpretative Rule (GIR) 1 states that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes. For electrical cables, Chapter 85 headings, particularly 8544, take precedence due to their specific nature as insulated conductors. Importers may also incorrectly classify single, unstranded wires or solid rods of iron or steel under this subheading.
How should importers classify products under HS 731210?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 731210 involves a thorough examination of the product's material composition and construction. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the product is indeed a stranded wire, rope, or cable made exclusively of iron or steel. Consulting the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and the specific tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the UK Trade Tariff, is crucial to confirm the precise scope and ensure accurate declaration.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 731210?
A shipment of 1,000 kilograms of galvanized steel wire rope, declared at a customs value of $2,500 USD, would attract a US duty of $125.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, as published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for subheading 731210. The calculation is: 5.0% × $2,500 USD = $125.00 USD.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 731210?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 731210, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating goods can be imported duty-free into the US, Canada, or Mexico. Documentation required to claim this preference typically involves a self-certified origin statement on the commercial invoice or a separate certificate of origin. For goods originating in certain developing countries under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), a Form A may be required, potentially leading to reduced or zero duties.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 731210 (stranded wire, ropes, and cables)?
The import duty rates for HS code 731210 vary significantly by country. For example, under the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is Free. However, other countries may have different rates. For instance, the UK Trade Tariff lists a duty rate of 0.00% for many origins, but specific rates can apply depending on the country of origin and any applicable trade agreements. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the most accurate and up-to-date duty information.
How is the duty calculated for HS code 731210 if a duty rate applies?
The duty calculation for HS code 731210 typically depends on whether the duty is ad valorem (a percentage of the value) or specific (a fixed amount per unit of quantity), or a combination. For example, if a country imposes a 5% ad valorem duty on stranded wire valued at $10,000, the duty would be calculated as 5% of $10,000 = $500. If there was a specific duty of $0.10 per kilogram and the shipment weighed 500 kg, the specific duty would be 500 kg * $0.10/kg = $50. The final duty amount is the sum of all applicable duties.
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 731210?
HS code 731210 covers stranded wire, ropes, and cables, specifically those made of iron or steel. The key criteria for classification under this code are the material (iron or steel) and the construction (stranded, i.e., composed of multiple wires twisted or braided together to form a rope or cable). Products that are not stranded, such as single wires or solid bars, would fall under different HS codes. The cross-sectional dimension and whether the product is insulated or not can also influence classification within or outside this heading.
Which common trade agreements might offer preferential duty rates for HS code 731210?
Preferential duty rates for HS code 731210 can be accessed through various trade agreements. For imports into the United States, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) or specific Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) like the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) might provide duty-free or reduced-duty treatment, provided the goods meet the rules of origin. For imports into the European Union, the EU's network of FTAs with countries like Canada, Japan, or South Korea can offer preferential rates. Similarly, the UK has its own set of trade agreements post-Brexit. Importers must verify the origin of their goods and ensure they meet the specific requirements of the relevant trade agreement to claim preferential treatment.
What documentation is typically required for importing stranded wire, ropes, and cables under HS code 731210?
Standard import documentation for HS code 731210 generally includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list; and a bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the origin of the goods, a certificate of origin may be required, especially if preferential duty rates are being claimed under a trade agreement. Some countries may also require specific safety or quality certifications, or evidence that the goods comply with relevant standards, particularly for industrial or safety-critical applications. Always consult the customs authority of the importing country for a comprehensive list of required documents.